Where can you find wisdom and knowledge?

Wisdom and knowledge are rarified jewels in society these days. Even Christians, who are told by God to seek wisdom, often show almost no wisdom when given the opportunity to shine. My friend, Leslie, shared a story this past week about a Christian singer, Lauren Daigle. I’d never heard of Ms. Daigle before (I’m not in touch with the so-called contemporary Christian music scene), but I was disappointed to hear her answer to a question about homosexuality.

Biblical wisdom and knowledge doesn’t say this about sin…

“I can’t honestly answer on that. In a sense, I have too many people that I love that they are homosexual…I don’t know…I actually had a conversation with someone last night about it. I can’t say one way or the other. I’m not God.”

That was Lauren Daigle’s answer when she was asked, in an interview, if she thinks homosexuality is a sin. She said she doesn’t know. She can’t say one way or the other because, “I’m not God.” It’s certainly good to acknowledge you’re not God. No one is God except God Himself. But to say you don’t know whether homosexuality is a sin because you’re not God is like admitting you haven’t read His word. And that lacks wisdom and knowledge, at best, while possibly leading people to hell, at worst.

I understand it’s difficult to stand up for Jesus when you’re just getting your career off to a blazing start. And I know, when you stand firm in your Christian faith, you’re gonna lose some (or all) your earthly treasures. Fame. Money. Status. But it’s always been difficult to stand up for Jesus. After all the Truth in His message offends most people. And He said, “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before ithated you.”

Wisdom and knowledge aren’t going to win you a popularity contest.

No, it’s no fun to have people hatin’ on you just for standing up for what’s right and true. But you know what’s less fun? Going to hell. And if you truly love your homosexual friends, you don’t want them to go to hell. So, you should tell them the Truth and let them decide whether they’ll trust it or not. Then, at least it’s not on you. It’s their decision. But if you’re a Christian, they need to hear some wisdom and knowledge about their sin. And you can give it to them because you know Who provides both.

And don’t buy into the worldly view of Jesus being just another “good man” or pacifist who went around preaching peace, love, and joy. Get to know the whole Jesus. He’s awesome beyond belief.

Give Me The Whole Jesus

Give me words…give me courage…
Give me time and a powerful voice.
And when many still may hate me,
Give me Your love and I’ll always rejoice.

Give me the whole Jesus;
The whole Good Lord…
The One who shields the child… the One who wields the sword.
Give me the whole Jesus
Son of God and man…
‘Cause only Jesus saves… And only Jesus can!
Only Jesus can! Only Jesus can!

Gas giants (not the political ones)

What do Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune have in common? Besides being cool to look at through telescopes and space probe pictures, they’re all known as gas giants. (yeah, like most politicians) And that means they’re considered low density and made up mostly of hydrogen and helium. It’s good to know what they’re made of because that helps us know how Earth got its groove.

Some scientists like to say planets are attracted to one another. (If I said you had a beautiful body, would you hold it against me?) They call it “mutual gravitational attraction”. And they say planets actually formed because of their mutual attraction. But that ain’t how it happened. (gasp!)

Gas giants spin and their gases stay in.

Scientists, who are looking for answers instead of forcing results into their worldview, have done experiments on colliding particles and gases. And guess what? They found how those particles almost always break up instead of forming into something bigger. But Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune are mostly hydrogen and helium. So how did they form if mutual gravitational attraction doesn’t add up? How do those gases keep their beautiful forms instead of falling apart as they spin through the solar system?

Well, they didn’t evolve. That’s for sure.

Of course, you’ve got to be willing to look at the evidence and go where it takes you instead of having a foregone destination conclusion…like evolution, or even creationism. But, when you look closely at the gas giants in our solar system, you can see design. They make sense. And they’re spinning through our solar system, and through the galaxy without falling apart. (more than I can say for those gas bags in Congress, but I digress)

How is that possible?

Experiments show how gases dissipate quickly in the vacuum of outer space. Especially hydrogen and helium. And wait a minute! Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune are mostly hydrogen and helium! What?!

It’s all just so contradictory. Unless you open your eyes to the possibility of design. Look at the beautiful designs of those gas giants sitting farther out in our solar system. Then, consider how those works of art might have had an artist. Design suggests, implies, and points to a designer. Simple, logical deduction.

But it’s not so simple if you don’t wanna go where that leads. To your Creator God. He didn’t force any mutual gravitational attraction on you. So, you don’t have to believe in Him or trust Him or get to know Him. But He’s optimistic and hopes you will. I hope so, too. Before you become dust and gases and discover it’s too late. Before you dissipate into an eternity of despair over what could have been. Since you’re reading this, it’s not too late. God’s grace can still be yours for the keeping. And He’ll hold all your particles together forever.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Put away childish things kiddo

It’s December 2018, as I write this, and of course that means people are ramping up their shopping time for Christmas. A lot of the focus is on buying presents for kids. And even though I haven’t been a kid for a long, long time, I still remember the magical feeling of getting presents under the Christmas tree. But one day, it became completely clear it was time to put away childish things and focus more on why there’s a Christmas in the first place. Here’s something I wrote about it almost five years ago, and it still applies…

Kids have vivid imaginations.

And I loved to spend time in my own little world of make believe. I don’t think that makes me unique at all. I’m sure just about every kid enjoys conjuring up images of flying ponies or personal rocket ships or invisible friends. It’s only natural.

Plus…it’s good to have an imagination. You’ve probably heard some people say “go ahead and have your castles in the air…just be sure to build a foundation under them”. I believe that, too. If you’re gonna dream, dream big. Are you familiar with the story of Don Quixote? If not, look for it. It’s a fun read. He was always dreaming the “impossible dream”. As a kid, it’s much easier to dream the impossible dream because you don’t yet have a bunch of harsh reality stomping your dreams into a pulp.

But as an adult, maybe you stumbled in your quest for the impossible dream. Maybe you began to realize there’s no such thing as a flying pony. Then, your heart sank, and your mind began to focus on the day-to-day tasks…making a living, taking care of a family or household, and paying the bills. In other words…

Then kids put away childish things and become adults.

Those so called “day-to-day” tasks are vitally important, and the Apostle Paul, in the Bible, admonishes us with his letter to “put away childish things” when we become adults. So, it’s good to embrace the reality of how the world truly works. It doesn’t mean you have to give up or throw away your imagination. It just means you can’t live in that make believe world anymore. However, this world has so much brightly colored, multi-textured, and glorious sensuous reality you don’t need to make believe to behold and enjoy it.

You’ve been given a great, big, beautiful, blue planet with everything your body needs to survive and thrive. God gives you day and night, light and dark, feelings and intellect, and you have the freedom to explore the wonders of the world. And you can pursue the passion in your heart and mind…at least when you don’t make believe it all just happened by chance. When you reach that level of make believe, you’re denying the existence of the only One who gives any meaning to your life.

A man or a woman can still be a child of God.

As a kid of thirteen I asked Jesus to come into my heart. He did. And even though I didn’t live a completely moral and exemplary life, I knew He’d never leave me nor forsake me. I don’t have to make believe He loves me or that He’s made a place for me to live with Him forever. And though I put away childish things when I became a man, I’m still a child of the Living God. You can be, too. Don’t put it off till tomorrow…tomorrow might be too late.

As A Kid

Well, all I have to do is close my eyes
And envision any place I want to be.
Then, all at once, I fly high into the sky.
And there’s so many pretty things below to see.
Won’t you grab your things and come with me?

The day begins to turn inside itself,
And things you thought you knew you soon forget.
But don’t despair, your memory returns,
And suddenly you’re filled with one regret.
You really wish you didn’t have to stop yet.

Make believe…make believe…
Games I played, played as a kid.
I don’t care…I don’t care…
What you’ve done or what you did.
It’s all a game of make-believe…
A game I always played…played as a kid.

Well, all I have to do is sing a song
And quickly I can feel my spirits soar.
Oh, I believe I’ll make one of my own
And sing it to myself forevermore.
So, what in Heaven am I waiting for?

Three cheers for long life vitality

Who doesn’t want long life vitality? OK, maybe dope smokers don’t care or think about that much, but most anybody else wants to live a long, healthy, energetic life. If you’re not one of them, you can stop reading right now and go enjoy another drag on your doobie. But anyone interested in hearing more about how to zest up your life, read on…

Long life vitality includes short term and long term.

In the short term, it’s important to eat sensibly and move around more. And I’m talking about real foods and getting your behind outside to enjoy fresh air and sunshine. Don’t take your health for granted. No matter how healthy and how much vitality you have right now, it could fade away faster than you might imagine.

I know firsthand.

Regardless of the status of your health, it makes sense to give yourself the best shot at long life vitality. Short term and long term.

Why do I keep saying “short term and long term”?

Well, first there’s the short term. I read, this morning, where former President George H W Bush (aka the first President Bush) died yesterday. He was 94. That’s a long life. But it’s still the short term of his life. Because whether he realized it or not (and I’m not sure he did) God created him as an eternal being. So, even though his body gave up yesterday, he’s not vaporized into nothingness.

Mr. Bush’s 94 years were a tiny, tiny drop in the bucket of his existence. And if, during that time, he didn’t acknowledge and accept Jesus as his Creator and Savior, George now knows his days of long life vitality are sadly over. Forever.

That’s the long term. And you might have noticed I didn’t list fresh air and sunshine as the way to achieve long term long life vitality.

Long life vitality for the long term require the Maker of fresh air and sunshine.

You can be mad at me for pointing it out, if you want. But you’d only be wasting your time on a fleeting, temporary messenger. The bone you have to pick is actually with the One who made you. Even if you’re enjoying amazing health…and even if you live to be 94 or 102, you’ll still see it’s a micro drop in a macro bucket.

I suggest you fill your bucket with Living Water. Don’t delay. Get to know your Creator today. Think of it as your long, long, long term life insurance.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

The age of Earth is as good as gold

It’s sort of ironic how I use the expression, good as gold, to talk about the age of the earth. After all, good as gold is kind of an old expression. And maybe younger readers and listeners have never heard it. Well, you have now. And it’ll all make more sense shortly.

This case against an old molten earth is as good as gold.

I didn’t realize how long people have been saying Earth is millions and billions of years old. Apparently textbooks, for over 200 years, have been saying Earth was a molten mess over 500 million years ago. We humans sure know how to maintain our knucklheadedness. With all the advances in scientific research, you’d think that information could have been updated by now. But you’d be wrong if you thought that.

Anyway…why do I say Earth’s not all that old? And why do I say this reason is as good as gold? Well, you’ve heard me mention Dr. Walt Brown many times, here on the website and on my podcast. And he has a huge list of reasons why evolution and millions or billions of years don’t explain our existence.

One of those reasons explains how, if Earth had been a molten mess all those years ago, then when it slowly cooled, the heavy metals would sink to the bottom. He also explained how gold is 70% more dense than lead and yet it’s found at the Earth’s surface. You don’t have to journey to the center of the Earth to find it.

And just because I say this explanation is as good as gold, you don’t have to take my word for granite. Speaking of granite…it’s pretty much the main ingredient on the surface of the Earth. And granite’s made up of mixture of minerals. And if granite had cooled slowly over long periods of time, the minerals that cooled first would have sunk to the bottom. That means granite would be layered minerals instead of clumped minerals.

Now, don’t get me started on xenon and zircon.

I’ll be glad to talk about those, too. But they’re not as good as gold. Well…not as shiny anyway.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Talk about God and watch what happens

A Thanksgiving and Christmas tradition in the Funderbungalow is to watch classic silver screen movies. Elgielene and I love the “old black and whites”. This Thanksgiving was no different. After our family tradition of steak, sweet potatoes, veggies, and dessert, we pulled up a couple of movies on YouTube and settled in. One thing stood out in both of them. We noticed how, even in the movies, they used to talk about God and not to just make fun.

Old movies often talk about God with actual reverence.

Yeah, one of the movies had an employer interviewing a potential employee (one of the stars of the movie) and he actually asked him whether he had found a local church or not. Elgielene and I looked at each other, and I said, “Wow, you sure don’t hear that in mainstream movies anymore.”

Nowadays, movies make fun of or mock God and Christians…if they mention them at all. Anyone who would dare talk about God is portrayed as the lunatic, or demented one, or the killer. Certainly not as the one who loves his neighbor as himself.

And modern movies reflect “real life”.

I’ve experienced that same sort of attempted ridicule as I talk about God here on my website and on my podcast. In fact, a relative of mine, ironically, compared me to Hitler. And then, when I asked if Hitler was wrong, he defended him saying “Hitler was only doing what he thought was right.” So, do you get that?

As an attempt to belittle my Christian faith, he compared me to a mass murderer. But then he couldn’t actually say that mass murderer was doing something wrong. Because he knew that would get into an issue of right and wrong.

There’s no bottom to the hole you dig for yourself when you deny the God of all creation. When you say He doesn’t exist, or when you say something silly like “we’re all part of the god force”, you’re only attempting to elevate yourself to the level of God. And that was the original sin, by the way.

So, I’ll go ahead and talk about God and risk the consequences.

If I’m wrong about God (and I’m not) then, the worst that could happen to me when I die is that I’ll just cease to exist. Big deal. But if you, who deny God, are wrong about Him (and you are), the consequences will be an actual “big deal”. The consequences of your choice, in this life, are eternal either way.

And I encourage you to choose life. Eternal life in paradise with the One who made you. Otherwise, you end up being the god in your universe of one. Forever. Think about it. Could you tolerate only yourself forever?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Relationships take work – oh no, that four-letter word!

On a recent episode of Grant Cardone’s podcast, “The Cardone Zone”, he was talking with his wife, Elena about the holidays. His podcast comes out just about daily, and they share the podcast weekly on what they call “The G&E Show”. Grant asked Elena for her “wish list” for the holidays, and it was easy to hear how difficult it was for him to truly listen to her list. As well as they apparently work together, they definitely have some issues. And that’s because relationships take work…not just your financial providing work. Your actual work ON and IN the relationships. Here’s why I bring it up.

Relationships take work and your will.

The first human relationship God ever created (and yes, He DID create it) was the husband-wife relationship. One man and one woman. Next to the relationship in the Holy Trinity, no other relationship is as important. And no other relationship is as meaningful and fulfilling. Not your relationships with your friends, your kids, your dog…not any others. That’s not to say those aren’t important. They’re just not AS important.

And when I say relationships take work and your will, it couldn’t be more true than for you and your spouse. You might have noticed…men and women are extremely different. And that difference can break a relationship into pieces without an act of your will to love your wife or your husband as you’d like them to love you.

Speaking from the man’s perspective (since that’s what I am), I can tell you there’s nothing more confounding, confusing, or conflicting than a woman. I can also say there’s nothing more refreshing, more relevant, or more rewarding than the love of a woman. But the love doesn’t just magically appear. It takes work. And oftentimes that work requires an act of your will because you don’t feel like doing it.

Your will is a gift from God so look to Him for how to use it.

When you get to Heaven (You ARE going, aren’t you?), God won’t be looking at a ledger showing the vast or meager amounts of wealth you acquired for your family. All the riches of the earth are like tiny grains of dust to Him. No, all you need to do to find out what’s important to God is read His word. You’ll discover His three most important ingredients for healthy relationships: Faith, Hope, and Love. And you’ll see how Love tops the list…and How God wants you to use it.

My hope for Grant Cardone is that he’ll see how his relationships with his wife and kids are far more important than how many more “deals” he can deliver. No amount of money will ever equal the time investment he makes in those relationships. Ironically, he’s always talking about how you have to build trust for those client relationships and those deals. And yet, all those deals are just an exchange of money for products, services, and information. They’re all temporary. But investing lots more time in your loved ones can provide a huge payoff with eternal benefits.

So even though relationships take work (sometimes a ton of it), God wants you to put that work above all else. And He’s written a thorough manual on how to do it. Make it an act of your will to start reading it right away.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Black Friday – the name says it all to me

I’ve never participated in Black Friday events. Never. They’re so black. As in dark-cloud-hanging-over-the-day black. Ever since I was old enough to shop with my own money I avoided shopping on that day like the plague. And just this morning I’ve already seen Black Friday news stories showing how emotional shoppers are complaining about lines and horrible checkout experiences. That was 4 in the morning! I can only imagine how much worse it’s liable to get. Why does anyone still physically show up for such abuse?

Black Friday news should be enough to make you skip the trip.

If you’re reading this (or listening to it on my podcast), then you’re fully aware of the internet. And if you’re like most of my readers and listeners, you’re avoiding the the Black Friday madness. You know the best deals are more likely to be found online. And even if the rock-bottom lowest prices are still found in a brick and mortar story, you know it’s not a great deal when you have to suffer the maddening crowds.

Just so you know…I’m not sharing this Black Friday news as an opportunity to sell you anything. You won’t find any links to stores. No SKUs to shoes, glues, or even tattoos. I just wanted to mention how most people forget the reason it’s even called “Black Friday”.

It’s the day that jumpstarts the biggest profit section of the year for most retail businesses. But why? Do even half of those retailers realize who they have to thank for their profits? I seriously…seriously doubt it. But I’ll let you know who.

Jesus is the reason for the season and for Black Friday.

Even people who don’t believe in Jesus celebrate Christmas. They just don’t give any credit where credit is due. (I used the word “credit” twice because there’s a lot of credit being used today…and look, I just did it again)

Yeah, even if you don’t believe Jesus plays a role in Black Friday anymore, He’s still the reason it ever got started. See, America used to be a mostly Christian nation. And Christmas used to be about celebrating the birth of Jesus. And people gave each other gifts to commemorate the wise men taking gifts to the baby Jesus. So, every year, around this time…after families had gathered together for Thanksgiving (giving thanks to God by the way), they found themselves in the mood for giving.

And the shopping began.

Believe it or not, it began with joy and gladness. But as America (and the world) has fallen away from Jesus, it’s no surprise how black and gloomy Black Friday has become. Even as I read this Black Friday news I’m sharing with you, I can feel the gloom. And since I don’t want this time of year to be black and gloomy, I’m gonna end it here. And I encourage you to avoid the temptation to join in the Black Friday blues. You’ll thank me later.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Where are the whole Jesus Christian music artists?

I just watched part of a Hillsong “praise music” song included in a video news clip and I just about got a toothache from the sugar-coated message. Before I explain, I’d like to point out the vocals were very good. And the singers looked sincere. Raised up arms and hands. Swaying back and forth in time to the music, etc. So, I’m not questioning or judging their hearts. But as I’ve noticed with so many Christian music artists, their song’s message lacked the actual manly power of God. And our Creator is the most manly man ever, so to only sing about peace, love, and joy is to rob the world of the whole Jesus.

Christian music artists used to sing about God’s might, strength, and judgment.

Now the message is so watered down even the most anti-God atheist wouldn’t feel uncomfortable singing along. So many “praise and worship” songs sound like any other love song on top 40 radio. And if your Christian music never makes anybody uncomfortable, you’re replacing the meat with sugar.

Today’s popular “Christian songs” simply leave out the I-wanna-do-it-all-night lyrics and replace them with something less secular. But many of them are so secularized they might as well be sung by Justin Bieber or Arianna Grande…or fill in the blank with a celebrity singer du jour.

A friend of mine recently posted, on social media, how “wimpy praise music” has replaced the “onward Christian soldiers” Christian music of the past. And I’ve seen her ask “where are the real Christian men?”

She knows they’re out there. But she and I both know their numbers have sadly dwindled in the past two or three decades. Christian music artists on the radio, and in churches, seem to prefer to sing only the “safe messages”. The messages about peace, love, joy, and beauty. And while Jesus is the source of all those, there is SO much more to Him.

When Jesus returns, it won’t be for a group hug.

The Bible says Jesus will rule and reign for a thousand years…and with a “rod of iron”. Does that sound like peace, love, and joy? It doesn’t even sound nice.

But I thought God is the God of love?! Isn’t that what Jesus taught?

Yes, And no. Love is not the whole message. And love is not the only emotion your Creator feels. Gasp! How dare I say that in this day and age?! How I dare say it is based on what God tells us about Himself in that famous book He wrote. The Bible shows the whole Jesus. And, as one of those Christian music artists I keep talking about, I say it’s important to sing and write songs about the whole Jesus.

So come on, Christian singers and songwriters. Let’s work a lot more on transforming the world…and a lot less on being conformed to it.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

Watered down truth

I’m gonna share the watered down truth with you…but in a good way. “There’s a good way to share watered down truth?” you ask. Yes. And stick with me ’cause it’s purty interstin’. (misspelled on purpose to give it character)

If you’re an adult (or at least resemble one in physical size and stature) you probably already know there’s a lot of water on our planet. In fact, Earth is about 70% covered in water. That’s almost three-fourths! And that means only about one fourth of the planet is made of something you can walk around on. Unless you’re Jesus.

And yet, the fact that we have so much water on our little, blue planet is undeniable. But where did so much water come from? Referring to Dr. Walt Brown again…he presents the most viable explanation you’re going to find. He calls it the “hydroplate theory”. Here’s a great video to help explain it (it’s long, so make some popcorn and enjoy).

Don’t drink the watered down science koolaid.

And don’t take my word for it. Or even the word of scientists. Test the evidence. See where it leads. Let it take you to truth. And my guess is, that’ll take you to THE Truth. In the case of the hydroplate theory, it’s the watered down Truth. Am I uncouth for saying so?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

A Christian Christmas song or a hoodie? Get both!

It’s the middle of November 2018 as I write this, so you know what that means…right? Yeah, Christmas! At least, if you’re tuned in to retail shopping, advertising, and just about anything else. I remember seeing some Christmas ornaments and fake trees on display back before Halloween. So, there’s no doubt about it, tis the season. In that spirit, I’m sharing a Christian Christmas song I wrote, but there’s a catch…

This Christian Christmas song comes in a hoodie.

I love this song. You might think that sounds a little conceited, since I wrote it, but I can’t help it. I do love this song. It’s called “I Believe in the God of Christmas”. And the emphasis should be on the the word “The”. There’s only one true God of Christmas. And He is a real person. It’s so important to emphasize that I wrote a song about it. And now I’ve created some merch to go with it. Like this hoodie…

When you get your own hoodie, email me some proof…either a copy of the receipt (including your credit card info…Just kidding) or a picture of you wearing it. When you do, I’ll send you the matching true Christian Christmas song. There aren’t many of those to be found. Deal of the century…right?! Well, maybe deal of the minute.

Anyway…happy holiday shopping and I hope this helps keep the reason for the season near and dear to your heart.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/christian-christmas-song/feed/0A Christian Christmas song or a hoodie? Get both! It’s the middle of November 2018 as I write this, so … Read the rest...
It’s the middle of November 2018 as I write this, so you know what that means…right? Yeah, Christmas! At least, if you’re tuned in to retail shopping, advertising, and just about anything else. I remember seeing some Christmas ornaments and fake trees on display back before Halloween. So, there’s no doubt about it, tis the season. In that spirit, I’m sharing a Christian Christmas song I wrote, but there’s a catch…
This Christian Christmas song comes in a hoodie.
I love this song. You might think that sounds a little conceited, since I wrote it, but I can’t help it. I do love this song. It’s called “I Believe in the God of Christmas”. And the emphasis should be on the the word “The”. There’s only one true God of Christmas. And He is a real person. It’s so important to emphasize that I wrote a song about it. And now I’ve created some merch to go with it. Like this hoodie…
When you get your own hoodie, email me some proof…either a copy of the receipt (including your credit card info…Just kidding) or a picture of you wearing it. When you do, I’ll send you the matching true Christian Christmas song. There aren’t many of those to be found. Deal of the century…right?! Well, maybe deal of the minute.
Anyway…happy holiday shopping and I hope this helps keep the reason for the season near and dear to your heart.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean5:45
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Womb Baby and I don’t mean maybehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/womb-baby/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/womb-baby/#respondWed, 14 Nov 2018 16:26:09 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18745Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Womb Baby – huh? What’s a womb baby? I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it’s a baby. …Read the rest...

Womb Baby – huh?

What’s a womb baby? I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it’s a baby. Crazy talk, I know. But crazy is one of the least offensive things I’ve been called. Anyway…have you noticed how, in the past few decades (and especially in the past few years), it has gotten increasingly difficult for so many people to know what that is in a mother’s womb. And that has happened even as technology has made it increasingly simple to see it’s a baby. So, what’s the problem here?

The problems a womb baby has in this world are location and connection.

One of the main reasons so many people are comfortable calling a womb baby just a “lifestyle choice” is the baby’s location. In the womb. If you’re willfully ignorant, you can walk up to a woman who’s 6 months pregnant and not know what’s making her belly protrude. You might act like you care and say something stupid like, “Whether a woman decides to carry her child to full term, go through the adoption process, or terminate the pregnancy, we will provide support.”

When you say the word terminate, it means you end something.

OK, that’s what terminate means. But what about pregnancy? Amazing that, for thousands of years, no one wondered what a pregnancy was. When a woman was pregnant, everybody knew she was gonna have a baby. A human baby. And the belly bump was the baby growing inside the woman.

Sane, thinking people still know that.

So, when you say “terminate a pregnancy,” it means killing a womb baby.

If you’re even remotely considering an abortion…or if you support a “woman’s right to choose”, it’s important to fully realize what that means. And it’s not merely stopping a bodily function or process. An abortion is terminating a human life. It’s not support in any way, shape, or form. If you can do that with no remorse, you’re no better than the Terminator in that video clip. In fact, you’re worse because you’re a thinking human being with a mind of your own. Not a programmed robot.

The other problem a womb baby has in this world is its connection. When a human sperm fertilizes a human egg, there is new human life. And it comes directly from the Source of Life. Yes, it is intimately connected to God. And since the vast majority of people on the planet hate God, they hate anything or anyone connected to Him. Terminating a pregnancy (aka, killing a baby) is like the ultimate rebellion against God.

Even if you don’t know when human life begins, at least don’t make the mistake of terminating a pregnancy. That’s like playing God, while at the same time denying He exists. Your actions have consequences. Don’t make a womb baby pay those consequences.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/womb-baby/feed/0Womb Baby – huh? What’s a womb baby? I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it’s a baby. … Read the rest...
What’s a womb baby? I’m gonna go out on a limb and say it’s a baby. Crazy talk, I know. But crazy is one of the least offensive things I’ve been called. Anyway…have you noticed how, in the past few decades (and especially in the past few years), it has gotten increasingly difficult for so many people to know what that is in a mother’s womb. And that has happened even as technology has made it increasingly simple to see it’s a baby. So, what’s the problem here?
The problems a womb baby has in this world are location and connection.
One of the main reasons so many people are comfortable calling a womb baby just a “lifestyle choice” is the baby’s location. In the womb. If you’re willfully ignorant, you can walk up to a woman who’s 6 months pregnant and not know what’s making her belly protrude. You might act like you care and say something stupid like, “Whether a woman decides to carry her child to full term, go through the adoption process, or terminate the pregnancy, we will provide support.”
When you say the word terminate, it means you end something.

OK, that’s what terminate means. But what about pregnancy? Amazing that, for thousands of years, no one wondered what a pregnancy was. When a woman was pregnant, everybody knew she was gonna have a baby. A human baby. And the belly bump was the baby growing inside the woman.
Sane, thinking people still know that.
So, when you say “terminate a pregnancy,” it means killing a womb baby.
If you’re even remotely considering an abortion…or if you support a “woman’s right to choose”, it’s important to fully realize what that means. And it’s not merely stopping a bodily function or process. An abortion is terminating a human life. It’s not support in any way, shape, or form. If you can do that with no remorse, you’re no better than the Terminator in that video clip. In fact, you’re worse because you’re a thinking human being with a mind of your own. Not a programmed robot.
The other problem a womb baby has in this world is its connection. When a human sperm fertilizes a human egg, there is new human life. And it comes directly from the Source of Life. Yes, it is intimately connected to God. And since the vast majority of people on the planet hate God, they hate anything or anyone connected to Him. Terminating a pregnancy (aka, killing a baby) is like the ultimate rebellion against God.Support human rights by supporting human life from the moment of conception.
Even if you don’t know when human life begins, at least don’t make the mistake of terminating a pregnancy. That’s like playing God, while at the same time denying He exists. Your actions have consequences. Don’t make a womb baby pay those consequences.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
Be sure to share this with everyone you know. And don’t be surprised if they get mad at you for it.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean11:50
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Three is a magic number – pay attention and don’t slumberhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/three-is-a-magic-number/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/three-is-a-magic-number/#respondFri, 02 Nov 2018 12:18:05 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18741Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Three is a magic number. Well, not really, but… It’s more than ironic how many people, who don’t even believe …Read the rest...

Three is a magic number. Well, not really, but…

It’s more than ironic how many people, who don’t even believe in the God of the Christian faith, believe three is a magic number. It’s a wonderful number. But hardly magic. Well, I guess you could say, in a way, it’s somewhat magical. But not like it has any powers to conjure up something from nothing. And yet, the reason it’s such a “magical” number is because it’s linked to the One who “conjured up” everything from nothing. Maybe you’ve heard of Him? Jesus.

Three is a magic number here on TonyFunderburk.com

By “magic number” I mean the number 3 is gonna play a big role in a massive giveaway I’ll be doing soon. Before I explain that, let me share some amazing Biblical facts a pastor shared about the number 3 on his website:

“God has imprinted our world and even ourselves with His triune nature. The number three manifested in Scripture turns the Christian’s attention outward to see space existing in three dimensions, height, width, and length, as does time in past, present and future. The electromagnetic force operates in positive, negative, and neutral, and in light, red, green, and blue blend into the hues of the rainbow whereas and in pigment the three primary colors are red, yellow, and blue. We human beings on this third planet from the Sun are made of atoms built of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Further, three generations of elementary particles underlie all matter, which mankind initially experienced only in three states, solid, liquid, and gas. The strongest shape for building is the triangle.”

Some ways the number three works its magic in my life

First and foremost…I was born on the third day of the month. And I was born in the 12th month of the year. Add up the two numbers in that month and you get three. My mom had three other kids after me. And I appreciate life three times as much as the average person. OK, that last one was a stretch, but you can see the number three prominently in my life. And that’s why I’m sharing this all with you today.

My Rhyme and Reason Podcast is about to reach 300 episodes. That’s no small deal, as well-known podcasters and internet marketers will tell you. So, to celebrate, I’m gonna do a massive giveaway. Not one, but three…count ’em three…people are gonna win a ginormous anthology of my original songs. I haven’t counted them all yet, but I’m guessing it’s gonna be around a hundred songs. And they include rare recordings I’ve rarely ever shared. Even old practice recordings where my, shall we say, lack of experience is exposed.

But there’s a catch

Ah, you knew there had to be one…right? The catch is, you gotta be either a member of my Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon (where you’ll get some free rhymes and reasons right away) or a subscriber to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast And if you’re a subscriber to the podcast, you’ll have to send me proof. A picture of your podcast library with my podcast in it, or something like that. If you jumped on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon, I’ll already have your name in the drawing.

Here’s the thing…

You still have plenty of time because I have about 30 episodes to go to get to 300 episodes of the podcast. (see, there’s that number 3 again) So, you have plenty of time to subscribe, if you haven’t already, and send me the proof. And you have plenty of time to jump on the Bandwagon, if you haven’t already. This isn’t just for new members or listeners. Everyone who’s part of either one will be eligible.

I’ll be sharing more about the songs I’ll be giving away as I get closer to the 300th episode on the podcast. But remember…don’t tell anyone else. You don’t wanna decrease the odds of winning. Right?

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/three-is-a-magic-number/feed/0Three is a magic number. Well, not really, but… It’s more than ironic how many people, who don’t even believe … Read the rest...
It’s more than ironic how many people, who don’t even believe in the God of the Christian faith, believe three is a magic number. It’s a wonderful number. But hardly magic. Well, I guess you could say, in a way, it’s somewhat magical. But not like it has any powers to conjure up something from nothing. And yet, the reason it’s such a “magical” number is because it’s linked to the One who “conjured up” everything from nothing. Maybe you’ve heard of Him? Jesus.
Three is a magic number here on TonyFunderburk.com
By “magic number” I mean the number 3 is gonna play a big role in a massive giveaway I’ll be doing soon. Before I explain that, let me share some amazing Biblical facts a pastor shared about the number 3 on his website:
“God has imprinted our world and even ourselves with His triune nature. The number three manifested in Scripture turns the Christian’s attention outward to see space existing in three dimensions, height, width, and length, as does time in past, present and future. The electromagnetic force operates in positive, negative, and neutral, and in light, red, green, and blue blend into the hues of the rainbow whereas and in pigment the three primary colors are red, yellow, and blue. We human beings on this third planet from the Sun are made of atoms built of protons, neutrons, and electrons. Further, three generations of elementary particles underlie all matter, which mankind initially experienced only in three states, solid, liquid, and gas. The strongest shape for building is the triangle.”
Some ways the number three works its magic in my life
First and foremost…I was born on the third day of the month. And I was born in the 12th month of the year. Add up the two numbers in that month and you get three. My mom had three other kids after me. And I appreciate life three times as much as the average person. OK, that last one was a stretch, but you can see the number three prominently in my life. And that’s why I’m sharing this all with you today.
My Rhyme and Reason Podcast is about to reach 300 episodes. That’s no small deal, as well-known podcasters and internet marketers will tell you. So, to celebrate, I’m gonna do a massive giveaway. Not one, but three…count ’em three…people are gonna win a ginormous anthology of my original songs. I haven’t counted them all yet, but I’m guessing it’s gonna be around a hundred songs. And they include rare recordings I’ve rarely ever shared. Even old practice recordings where my, shall we say, lack of experience is exposed.
But there’s a catch
Ah, you knew there had to be one…right? The catch is, you gotta be either a member of my Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon (where you’ll get some free rhymes and reasons right away) or a subscriber to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast And if you’re a subscriber to the podcast, you’ll have to send me proof. A picture of your podcast library with my podcast in it, or something like that. If you jumped on the Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon, I’ll already have your name in the drawing.
Here’s the thing…
You still have plenty of time because I have about 30 episodes to go to get to 300 episodes of the podcast. (see, there’s that number 3 again) So, you have plenty of time to subscribe,]]>Tony Funderburkclean12:45
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Republican or Democrat – don’t focus on things like thathttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/republican-or-democrat/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/republican-or-democrat/#respondThu, 01 Nov 2018 12:00:25 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18743Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Republican or Democrat? God knows who you are. He knows where you were born, who your parents were, and even …Read the rest...

Republican or Democrat?

God knows who you are. He knows where you were born, who your parents were, and even the amount of hairs on your head. God has seen you grow up, has witnessed your good deeds and your bad, and has heard your prayers. Or noticed if you haven’t prayed to Him. Yeah, there’s something about you very important to God. And it’s not whether you’re republican or democrat.

Being a republican or democrat doesn’t win you points with your Creator.

God is not proud of you because you “vote the red ticket all the way”, a phrase I’ve seen on social media, a lot, during this 2018 mid-term election season. God is also not proud of you when you vote on the democrat side. I’m not attempting to put words in His mouth, but I’d be willing to bet God couldn’t care less about your party affiliation. How can I say that, you ask?

The Bible.

Yes, while I certainly don’t want to put words INTO God’s mouth, I can certainly relay the ones that have come OUT. And that’s what the Bible is you know. The “Word of God”. Throughout all the words in the old and new Testaments, there’s a common thing God is concerned with in you and me. And it’s not our political preference.

God cares about your heart condition.

Did you know you’re born with a broken heart? Yeah, you’re actually born that way. In my case, that’s figurative AND literal. Well, mine is physically “deformed” not actually broken. But that’s another story.

You’re born into a broken world. Literally and figuratively. And sin broke it. Yours, mine, and every other person’s. Being a republican or democrat won’t get you out of the consequences. Only one thing…one person…can save you from eternal misery. And only one person can completely heal your broken heart.

Jesus.

And even though He knows everything about you, He is still willing to love you, heal your heart, and give you eternal life. I encourage you to turn your focus away from being a republican or democrat, and focus on following the One who sacrificed everything to make you whole. It’s your decision. Vote for Jesus.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Lots of people need this, so share it with anyone you think could benefit.

Hate speech is in the ears of the listener

I just read an article on my Apple News app talking about the shooter connected to the Pittsburgh synagogue. And the article called it a hate crime committed by a man who shared hate speech on social media channels. First off, I have to say how stupid the term “hate crime” sounds. It’s just redundant. All crime flows from selfishness, which is a form of hate. So to call one crime a hate crime as if there’s any other kind of crime is…like I said…stupid. Anyway, back to that hate speech thing.

Hate speech is a term used by weaklings.

If you hate me (and you might just because I’m a Christian) and you wanna call me names or say bad things about me, so be it. But I won’t give you credit for a special language or label your selfishness as hate speech. I’ll just consider you worthy of both my love AND hate.

Uh-oh…did he say he’d hate you?

Yes.

But notice I said love AND hate. “That’s not even possible,” you say. Nay, nay grasshopper. In fact, as a Christian, I should be doing my best to emulate God, right? And what if God hates and loves at the same time? Should I try to do that, too? Correct answer is YES! And would God ask me to do something He knows I’m incapable of doing. Correct answer is NO!

“Golly gee, Tony. Where are you getting all this crazy talk from?” Correct answer is The Bible! Yeah, this whole crazy idea I’m sharing about how God hates and He expects us to as well…it’s in The Bible.

Allow me to share God’s own “hate speech” with you right here…

“These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.”

Look more closely at what and who God hates. If any of the seven things describe you, He hates your face, your mouth, your hands, your heart, your feet, and basically your whole self. Whoa! That covers a lot of hate, doesn’t it?

But God is the God of love, isn’t He? Sure. You bet. But He hates evil. And He tells us to hate it too. In fact, at least one Bible translation says to “abhor evil“. And that means to hate with all your might. Hey, that sounds like more hate speech. But it’s actually true love. Because true love can’t love evil. True love must abhor evil. If you truly love your fellow man, you tell him when he’s evil. And you don’t tolerate it. And you certainly don’t do evil so that good things might come from it.

So, keep God’s perspective in your heart. And the next time you see a so-called “reporter” or “journalist” put the word hate before the word speech, you’ll have the wisdom to see and understand their hypocrisy.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/hate-speech/feed/0Hate speech is in the ears of the listener I just read an article on my Apple News app talking … Read the rest...
I just read an article on my Apple News app talking about the shooter connected to the Pittsburgh synagogue. And the article called it a hate crime committed by a man who shared hate speech on social media channels. First off, I have to say how stupid the term “hate crime” sounds. It’s just redundant. All crime flows from selfishness, which is a form of hate. So to call one crime a hate crime as if there’s any other kind of crime is…like I said…stupid. Anyway, back to that hate speech thing.
Hate speech is a term used by weaklings.
If you hate me (and you might just because I’m a Christian) and you wanna call me names or say bad things about me, so be it. But I won’t give you credit for a special language or label your selfishness as hate speech. I’ll just consider you worthy of both my love AND hate.
Uh-oh…did he say he’d hate you?
Yes.
But notice I said love AND hate. “That’s not even possible,” you say. Nay, nay grasshopper. In fact, as a Christian, I should be doing my best to emulate God, right? And what if God hates and loves at the same time? Should I try to do that, too? Correct answer is YES! And would God ask me to do something He knows I’m incapable of doing. Correct answer is NO!
“Golly gee, Tony. Where are you getting all this crazy talk from?” Correct answer is The Bible! Yeah, this whole crazy idea I’m sharing about how God hates and He expects us to as well…it’s in The Bible.
Allow me to share God’s own “hate speech” with you right here…
“These six things the Lord hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.”
Look more closely at what and who God hates. If any of the seven things describe you, He hates your face, your mouth, your hands, your heart, your feet, and basically your whole self. Whoa! That covers a lot of hate, doesn’t it?
But God is the God of love, isn’t He? Sure. You bet. But He hates evil. And He tells us to hate it too. In fact, at least one Bible translation says to “abhor evil“. And that means to hate with all your might. Hey, that sounds like more hate speech. But it’s actually true love. Because true love can’t love evil. True love must abhor evil. If you truly love your fellow man, you tell him when he’s evil. And you don’t tolerate it. And you certainly don’t do evil so that good things might come from it.
So, keep God’s perspective in your heart. And the next time you see a so-called “reporter” or “journalist” put the word hate before the word speech, you’ll have the wisdom to see and understand their hypocrisy.

Can we make America great again?

I’m not a Donald Trump fanboy. I didn’t vote for him. Or any of his republican rivals or his democratic opponent in the presidential election. Just want you to know that up front. But I do like the slogan, Make America Great Again. It’s a noble cause. However, no matter how much the president means it when he says it, I doubt he’ll be able to carry it out. So, I’d like to give him (and you) the benefit of my doubt.

First…America’s greatness is not found in money.

According to many stats, surveys, and other sources of information, America’s economy has improved since Donald Trump took office. That’s nice. But not great. Because, during the almost two years he’s been president, Trump has signed checks to Planned Parenthood for a total of about half a billion dollars. That’s most definitely not great.

Picture America as one, big family. Dad took a new job, and he’s making a lot more money. And he’s bringing home presents every week. But he doesn’t keep his family safe. In fact, some of his kids have already been killed by evil men. So Dad just works harder to bring home more money. I know that’s an absurd analogy. But I’m illustrating the absurdity of judging America’s greatness based on bank accounts.

Make America Great Again and start by protecting the most innocent citizens.

If our economy is flourishing, wouldn’t it be a great idea to take some of that wealth and protect babies? I mean, that seems so obvious to me. In fact, it wouldn’t require extra governmental spending. No new taxes. Just stop taking money from hard-working Americans and giving it to organizations and institutions that kill babies. Use those billions of dollars to protect America from predators, improve roads, and create an unbelievably awesome communication infrastructure.

It’s important to realize America is already a socialist nation. Not a republic or democracy. Socialist. Plain and simple. When you forcibly take from working citizens and give it to non-working or barely working citizens, that’s a socialist action. And when elections and high offices are won based on how many social programs are supported, that needs to go in the loss column. It’s not great. It’s criminal.

If you love President Trump, you’ll pray for him…sure. But you’ll also let him know you don’t support him signing those checks to abortion organizations. You can’t support those anti-God actions and love Trump at the same time. That’s not the way to Make America Great Again.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

Be sure and tell everyone you know. Don’t keep the goodies all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/make-america-great-again/feed/0Can we make America great again? I’m not a Donald Trump fanboy. I didn’t vote for him. Or any of … Read the rest...
I’m not a Donald Trump fanboy. I didn’t vote for him. Or any of his republican rivals or his democratic opponent in the presidential election. Just want you to know that up front. But I do like the slogan, Make America Great Again. It’s a noble cause. However, no matter how much the president means it when he says it, I doubt he’ll be able to carry it out. So, I’d like to give him (and you) the benefit of my doubt.
First…America’s greatness is not found in money.
According to many stats, surveys, and other sources of information, America’s economy has improved since Donald Trump took office. That’s nice. But not great. Because, during the almost two years he’s been president, Trump has signed checks to Planned Parenthood for a total of about half a billion dollars. That’s most definitely not great.
Picture America as one, big family. Dad took a new job, and he’s making a lot more money. And he’s bringing home presents every week. But he doesn’t keep his family safe. In fact, some of his kids have already been killed by evil men. So Dad just works harder to bring home more money. I know that’s an absurd analogy. But I’m illustrating the absurdity of judging America’s greatness based on bank accounts.
Make America Great Again and start by protecting the most innocent citizens.
If our economy is flourishing, wouldn’t it be a great idea to take some of that wealth and protect babies? I mean, that seems so obvious to me. In fact, it wouldn’t require extra governmental spending. No new taxes. Just stop taking money from hard-working Americans and giving it to organizations and institutions that kill babies. Use those billions of dollars to protect America from predators, improve roads, and create an unbelievably awesome communication infrastructure.
It’s important to realize America is already a socialist nation. Not a republic or democracy. Socialist. Plain and simple. When you forcibly take from working citizens and give it to non-working or barely working citizens, that’s a socialist action. And when elections and high offices are won based on how many social programs are supported, that needs to go in the loss column. It’s not great. It’s criminal.
If you love President Trump, you’ll pray for him…sure. But you’ll also let him know you don’t support him signing those checks to abortion organizations. You can’t support those anti-God actions and love Trump at the same time. That’s not the way to Make America Great Again.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
Be sure and tell everyone you know. Don’t keep the goodies all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:20
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Nice things to say have made my dayhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/nice-things-to-say/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/nice-things-to-say/#respondFri, 26 Oct 2018 11:39:06 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18711Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Some nice people have had nice things to say Remember this old saying? “If you don’t any nice things to …Read the rest...

Some nice people have had nice things to say

Remember this old saying? “If you don’t any nice things to say, don’t say anything at all.” Or maybe you’ve heard this version, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything.” Either way, you get the point. When someone is telling you that, it’s usually to get you to stop saying what they think isn’t nice. Right? Now, let me say, right away, this isn’t a rant about the benefits or pitfalls of speaking your mind. I just wanted to share some things people have shared with me that have made my day.

These people had nice things to say about me, so I wanted to share them with you.

Yesterday, something stood out as I was posting content to some of my social media and platform channels. A lot of people have had some nice things to say about me, and I haven’t properly said thank you here on my website or on my podcast.

So, I’d like to share a few of the comments and feedback with you now. And if you’re one of the people I mention, I hope I’m not embarrassing you. But here goes…

Talking about my Rhyme and Reason podcast, a listener going by the name “Keith Green” said: “I’m thankful for these segments with Tony. I’ve been looking for a means to decompress. I can’t think of anything but listening to ‘Rhythm and Reason’ to decompress. The combination of words and songs focusing on Godly wisdom are just what God has ordered! Thank you!” – Thank YOU, Keith Green.

Another listener to the podcast, who goes by the name, “Dittos”, shared this review: “I’ve been enjoying each and every episode. Once I heard a few, I went back to the very first episode and played them through. That’s like a hundred episodes, so I’m serious when I say these are fantastic! One of the most varied podcasts I listen to, out of 18 or so I regularly subscribe to. Rarely can someone sing, read prose, AND teach God’s truths! But Tony does a perfect balance. I’m sort of a hardcore, black-and-white guy when it comes to Scripture and Tony helps me soften around the edges where my witness needs it without sacrificing one bit of the Sword of the Lord’s effectiveness. Thank you Mr. Funderburk, I look forward to the next 100!” Thank you Dittos!

(side note…there are almost 200 more episodes, now)

Some more nice things people have said…

I’m humbled and honored by what Heather Combs said on one of my social media channels. She’s the author of a book on the subject of surviving suicides of family members. It’s called “Teardrops That Tango“. And she shared this: “Tony is The Words Music & Voice Guy! How do I coherently and concisely express my admiration and respect for his diverse professional body of work? It would require a writer far more gifted than I to adequately represent Tony’s gifts as a musician, singer, writer, designer, blogger, and a dramaturg, as a professional man of theatre with music. His work with “3 Super Powers for Ads” is exceptional. I count myself fortunate to call Tony a professional associate, and even luckier to call him friend. Please do not hesitate to contact me directly for more information on this wonderfully gifted man.”

Wow! I hope and pray I continue to live up to that.

Another lady I admire, Leslie Hanks, had this to say…and again, wow! “Tony Funderburk is a modern day Renaissance man! Whether you need his incredible singer, song writer, performance skills, or his ability to delight your children with their own personalized music, Tony is your go to guy! Tony is an accomplished copy writer, and creative talent. He’s a talented voice actor and can meet all your your voice over needs. Tony Funderburk’s versatility and creativity, combined with his integrity make him that special individual you’ll never regret hiring for your comprehensive communication needs.”

OK, I’m starting to have an out-of-body experience. It almost feels like I’m reading about somebody other than me. But there reason I shared these comments with you is because I want you to know how much it means to me. Like I say on my podcast: It means the world to me…more than you know. I don’t take it for granted. And I’ve prayed for you, my listeners and readers, because of your kindness, support, and encouragement. You’re awesome.

That’s just one of my nice things to say about you.

But it’ll have to do for now. I can’t share everything everyone has said. Maybe I can add more in another post. Till next time, remember…there IS a rhyme and reason to life because God made you.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep the goodies all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/nice-things-to-say/feed/0Some nice people have had nice things to say Remember this old saying? “If you don’t any nice things to … Read the rest...
Remember this old saying? “If you don’t any nice things to say, don’t say anything at all.” Or maybe you’ve heard this version, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything.” Either way, you get the point. When someone is telling you that, it’s usually to get you to stop saying what they think isn’t nice. Right? Now, let me say, right away, this isn’t a rant about the benefits or pitfalls of speaking your mind. I just wanted to share some things people have shared with me that have made my day.
These people had nice things to say about me, so I wanted to share them with you.
Yesterday, something stood out as I was posting content to some of my social media and platform channels. A lot of people have had some nice things to say about me, and I haven’t properly said thank you here on my website or on my podcast.
So, I’d like to share a few of the comments and feedback with you now. And if you’re one of the people I mention, I hope I’m not embarrassing you. But here goes…
Talking about my Rhyme and Reason podcast, a listener going by the name “Keith Green” said: “I’m thankful for these segments with Tony. I’ve been looking for a means to decompress. I can’t think of anything but listening to ‘Rhythm and Reason’ to decompress. The combination of words and songs focusing on Godly wisdom are just what God has ordered! Thank you!” – Thank YOU, Keith Green.
Another listener to the podcast, who goes by the name, “Dittos”, shared this review: “I’ve been enjoying each and every episode. Once I heard a few, I went back to the very first episode and played them through. That’s like a hundred episodes, so I’m serious when I say these are fantastic! One of the most varied podcasts I listen to, out of 18 or so I regularly subscribe to. Rarely can someone sing, read prose, AND teach God’s truths! But Tony does a perfect balance. I’m sort of a hardcore, black-and-white guy when it comes to Scripture and Tony helps me soften around the edges where my witness needs it without sacrificing one bit of the Sword of the Lord’s effectiveness. Thank you Mr. Funderburk, I look forward to the next 100!” Thank you Dittos!
(side note…there are almost 200 more episodes, now)
Some more nice things people have said…
I’m humbled and honored by what Heather Combs said on one of my social media channels. She’s the author of a book on the subject of surviving suicides of family members. It’s called “Teardrops That Tango“. And she shared this: “Tony is The Words Music & Voice Guy! How do I coherently and concisely express my admiration and respect for his diverse professional body of work? It would require a writer far more gifted than I to adequately represent Tony’s gifts as a musician, singer, writer, designer, blogger, and a dramaturg, as a professional man of theatre with music. His work with “3 Super Powers for Ads” is exceptional. I count myself fortunate to call Tony a professional associate, and even luckier to call him friend. Please do not hesitate to contact me directly for more information on this wonderfully gifted man.”
Wow! I hope and pray I continue to live up to that.
Another lady I admire, Leslie Hanks, had this to say…and again, wow! “Tony Funderburk is a modern day Renaissance man! Whether you need his incredible singer, song writer,]]>Tony Funderburkclean7:33
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Remember America? Sure thing. A perfect place for visitinghttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/remember-america/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/remember-america/#respondMon, 22 Oct 2018 12:18:55 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18703Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Hey…Remember America? What A Great Country That Was! Long before I ever had even a notion of writing or singing …Read the rest...

Hey…Remember America?
What A Great Country That Was!

Long before I ever had even a notion of writing or singing for a living I remember my brother and me traveling with our grandparents through the backroads of a country called America. And I remember our parents taking us for excursions through sections of it called Kansas, and Oklahoma, and Texas. Here are a few more things I think of when I remember America and the good times I had there.

I remember America being a lot like my family.

The local people spoke English like us. They had different accents, but we could understand every word. In fact, when we’d stop for something to eat, the waitress (yeah, that’s what they called servers back then) sounded American. Our whole family marveled at the coincidence. And when Dad would stop at a gas station, a friendly guy would come out, pump gas into the car and ask if we needed the oil checked or windshield cleaned. Most times with a smile on his face.

I always wondered what made those guys so happy.

When we’d drive down the interstates (which were nice roads), Grandmother would challenge us to read the road signs. It wasn’t all that difficult, though, because they were in English. But they zipped by pretty fast…that was the challenge. The roads were smooth, and trash was almost non-existent. And we never saw graffiti…not even on train cars. I know. Hard to imagine. But it’s true.

I remember America had a lot of friendly people.

So many people would smile and say hello when I’d walk with my Grandmother to the grocery store. The local natives would punch in the totals on clunky cash registers, and some guy would put all the groceries in brown paper bags. It was like they didn’t have a clue how inefficient and wasteful that was. They’d just smile and talk and ask about the family, and it took much longer than a kid could stand.

I remember America seemed to settle down quite a bit each evening.

They had the oddest forms of evening entertainment, too. Sometimes the grownups would sit around in lawn chairs telling stories while someone churned out something called homemade ice cream. Or they’d split open a large, red fruit…I think they called it a watermelon. And everyone would eat and talk until well after dark. There were no special TV shows or channels of music for kids so guess what they did while the grownups talked. Chase fireflies and put them in a jar. Can you imagine? No one seemed to realize or care how every life (even a bug) is equally valuable.

And those poor folks back then didn’t have all the great ways to make a quick buck…like…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/remember-america/feed/0Hey…Remember America? What A Great Country That Was! Long before I ever had even a notion of writing or singing … Read the rest...
What A Great Country That Was!
Long before I ever had even a notion of writing or singing for a living I remember my brother and me traveling with our grandparents through the backroads of a country called America. And I remember our parents taking us for excursions through sections of it called Kansas, and Oklahoma, and Texas. Here are a few more things I think of when I remember America and the good times I had there.
I remember America being a lot like my family.
The local people spoke English like us. They had different accents, but we could understand every word. In fact, when we’d stop for something to eat, the waitress (yeah, that’s what they called servers back then) sounded American. Our whole family marveled at the coincidence. And when Dad would stop at a gas station, a friendly guy would come out, pump gas into the car and ask if we needed the oil checked or windshield cleaned. Most times with a smile on his face.
I always wondered what made those guys so happy.
When we’d drive down the interstates (which were nice roads), Grandmother would challenge us to read the road signs. It wasn’t all that difficult, though, because they were in English. But they zipped by pretty fast…that was the challenge. The roads were smooth, and trash was almost non-existent. And we never saw graffiti…not even on train cars. I know. Hard to imagine. But it’s true.
I remember America had a lot of friendly people.
So many people would smile and say hello when I’d walk with my Grandmother to the grocery store. The local natives would punch in the totals on clunky cash registers, and some guy would put all the groceries in brown paper bags. It was like they didn’t have a clue how inefficient and wasteful that was. They’d just smile and talk and ask about the family, and it took much longer than a kid could stand.
I remember America seemed to settle down quite a bit each evening.
They had the oddest forms of evening entertainment, too. Sometimes the grownups would sit around in lawn chairs telling stories while someone churned out something called homemade ice cream. Or they’d split open a large, red fruit…I think they called it a watermelon. And everyone would eat and talk until well after dark. There were no special TV shows or channels of music for kids so guess what they did while the grownups talked. Chase fireflies and put them in a jar. Can you imagine? No one seemed to realize or care how every life (even a bug) is equally valuable.
And those poor folks back then didn’t have all the great ways to make a quick buck…like…
Legalized abortion, legalized pornography, powerball, lotto, ubiquitous pharmaceuticals, marijuana dispensaries, divorce lawyers, or serial killers and terrorists selling their stories to movie producers, or…should I continue…?
All in all America was a nice country to visit.
Even though it was a dorky family-friendly environment filled with bumpkins and simpletons I’d certainly go back for an extended visit…
…if I could just find the way.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean5:52
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Motorcycle ministry – this is one you gotta seehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/motorcycle-ministry/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/motorcycle-ministry/#respondSun, 21 Oct 2018 12:01:37 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18709Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Have motorcycle ministry – will travel I’d like to show you a motorcycle ministry. If you watch “America’s Got Talent”, …Read the rest...

Have motorcycle ministry – will travel

I’d like to show you a motorcycle ministry. If you watch “America’s Got Talent”, you might have seen them already. But we don’t get TV programs here in the FunderBungalow, so I hadn’t seen these guys before. Check it out…

Real Encounter uses its motorcycle ministry to tell the world about Jesus.

On their website, they describe what they do this way: “Our ministry outreach is made up of professional athletes and ministers in the area of Moto Stunting, Street Bike Stunting and BMX Bike Stunt Team. Our outreach strategy uses action sports and extreme sports to connect with all ages of people. The motorcycle stunt show is our platform, but make no mistake; Jesus Christ has center-stage in our lives as individuals and our message as a ministry.”

This is just another example of how God can use you where you are. Any business you’re in…any sport you enjoy…any hobby you’re good at…any topic you build authority in…God can use you.

You should be a ministry. Yes, YOU!

Don’t worry about what you’ll say. Or how you’ll present it. You don’t need a motorcycle ministry. Simply trust God. Be in His Word. Let that Word live in you, and let it flow from you. Someone, somewhere needs exactly what you have to offer. Your perspective. Your insight. And your experience and willingness to share.

I hope the video I shared is an inspiration to you. If four guys, with a motorcycle ministry, can stand in front of Howard Stern and talk about ministry when he mentions pornography…what can’t you do?

So, right now, right where you are…start thinking about what your ministry is. Formulate some ideas inside. Ideas about who could benefit from what you have to share. And how you can share the Truth the world needs. Be sure you’re rightly dividing the Word of Truth…then get out there and share. And be sure to let me know how it went. I love those stories.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

The Simple Truth

The Christian faith is based on one thing and one thing only…the simple truth that Jesus is the only way to eternal life in Heaven. And His love wins out over all the sins of every person who ever lived or will live. A loving Christian will want you to know that truth, if you don’t already. But a loving Christian won’t try to force anyone to choose Jesus. Jesus doesn’t work that way. Why should we? Forcing someone into a choice isn’t loving. And it certainly doesn’t win you any new friends. No, it’s better to share how much our Creator loves us and how much He sacrificed for us. Love has a much better chance at winning hearts than brute force or anger ever will.

It’s simple. The simple truth wins.

Human beings like to complicate things. Why stick with 10 laws, when we can make a million? Or why remember to eat real food, exercise regularly, and get plenty of fresh air, sunshine, and water…when we can create a thousand diets? It’s usually a matter of wanting to look more intelligent. Or else it’s the “control freak” in us. Whatever it is, it’s so unnecessary. After all, if God can write a book and make a point easy for us to understand, shouldn’t we be able to do that, too? Uh…yeah…if we follow His lead.

Here’s a simple poem I’ve shared before. I kept it simple so even kids could understand the love behind the Truth.

The Simple Truth

Take to heart the simple truth
That God loves you today.
He wants you to trust in Him
And know He’s made a Way
You can live forevermore
And never more be sad.
You can have much better life
Than any day you’ve had.
Just imagine life with God
That never ever ends
Where you’ll see Him face to face
And be forever friends.
Jesus is your one way there.
He hopes you’ll want to go,
But He lets you choose the way
Because He loves you so.

Do you have a better truth?

If you read the words on this site and find yourself disagreeing, stop and consider what’s making you disagree? Before you decide to say something mean or full of anger, figure out what part of my words stirred that up in you. Was it the love part? Was it the part where I said we Christians shouldn’t try to force anyone to trust in Jesus? Or was it where I started rhyming things? If it’s not any of those things…and it sure shouldn’t be…then what in the world would make you disagree? I think I know the answer to that, but you can let me know what you think. The simple truth is…I care enough to ask. And I care about where you’ll choose to spend eternity.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep these goodies all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-simple-truth/feed/0The Simple Truth The Christian faith is based on one thing and one thing only…the simple truth that Jesus is … Read the rest...
The Christian faith is based on one thing and one thing only…the simple truth that Jesus is the only way to eternal life in Heaven. And His love wins out over all the sins of every person who ever lived or will live. A loving Christian will want you to know that truth, if you don’t already. But a loving Christian won’t try to force anyone to choose Jesus. Jesus doesn’t work that way. Why should we? Forcing someone into a choice isn’t loving. And it certainly doesn’t win you any new friends. No, it’s better to share how much our Creator loves us and how much He sacrificed for us. Love has a much better chance at winning hearts than brute force or anger ever will.
It’s simple. The simple truth wins.
Human beings like to complicate things. Why stick with 10 laws, when we can make a million? Or why remember to eat real food, exercise regularly, and get plenty of fresh air, sunshine, and water…when we can create a thousand diets? It’s usually a matter of wanting to look more intelligent. Or else it’s the “control freak” in us. Whatever it is, it’s so unnecessary. After all, if God can write a book and make a point easy for us to understand, shouldn’t we be able to do that, too? Uh…yeah…if we follow His lead.
Here’s a simple poem I’ve shared before. I kept it simple so even kids could understand the love behind the Truth.
The Simple Truth
Take to heart the simple truth

That God loves you today.

He wants you to trust in Him

And know He’s made a Way

You can live forevermore

And never more be sad.

You can have much better life

Than any day you’ve had.

Just imagine life with God

That never ever ends

Where you’ll see Him face to face

And be forever friends.

Jesus is your one way there.

He hopes you’ll want to go,

But He lets you choose the way

Because He loves you so.
Do you have a better truth?
If you read the words on this site and find yourself disagreeing, stop and consider what’s making you disagree? Before you decide to say something mean or full of anger, figure out what part of my words stirred that up in you. Was it the love part? Was it the part where I said we Christians shouldn’t try to force anyone to trust in Jesus? Or was it where I started rhyming things? If it’s not any of those things…and it sure shouldn’t be…then what in the world would make you disagree? I think I know the answer to that, but you can let me know what you think. The simple truth is…I care enough to ask. And I care about where you’ll choose to spend eternity.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep these goodies all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:27
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Music and arts and where it all startshttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/music-and-arts/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/music-and-arts/#respondFri, 19 Oct 2018 12:19:50 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18699Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Music and Arts When you put a forward slash between numbers, they can become a fraction. For example: 3/4. But …Read the rest...

Music and Arts

When you put a forward slash between numbers, they can become a fraction. For example: 3/4. But the language I love the most makes different use of that arrangement of numbers. In music and arts composition, 3/4 time means there’s a beat missing…so to speak. And it can turn a collection of notes into a strikingly simple, yet beautiful creation. It’s inspirational to see how you can stir the emotions of an entire audience simply by removing 1 note from each bar of music.

﻿

Music and arts creators can only collect and manipulate.

Whether Anthony Hopkins knows it or not, his wonderful composition didn’t originate in him. Oh sure, he’s the one who composed the music notes and either wrote them down or recorded them. But ultimately he, and everyone who enjoys this piece, needs to acknowledge the Creator of music.

God.

We humans don’t truly “create” anything. It was all created already. We can re-create, procreate, and manipulate. But we can only do that using what has already been created. Music and arts are part of creation. Part of that which was created from nothing. Only God can create something from nothing. Something can’t create itself from nothing. It’s observable in science, so this isn’t some purely theological theory I’m tossing out here.

Music manipulation leads to audience elation.

When I watched the original video, where Mr. Hopkins got to hear his composition played by an orchestra for the first time, I was reminded of how much I deeply love musical arrangements like “Sir Anthony’s”. And I smiled as I watched the audience members sway to the flow. And I got the sense he was truly and humbly moved by the outpouring of adoration. It must have been a compliment he’ll never forget. Nor should he.

My hope, for him, is that he gives thanks to God for giving him such a delightful musical gift. It would be a great pleasure to speak to Mr. Hopkins about the experience…even if I have to wait to the fully eternal part of my life…because that would mean he trusted God, too.

Ah, but pay me no mind. I’m just a sentimental ol’ dude over here tapping his toes in 3/4 time.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep these goodies all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/music-and-arts/feed/0Music and Arts When you put a forward slash between numbers, they can become a fraction. For example: 3/4. But … Read the rest...
When you put a forward slash between numbers, they can become a fraction. For example: 3/4. But the language I love the most makes different use of that arrangement of numbers. In music and arts composition, 3/4 time means there’s a beat missing…so to speak. And it can turn a collection of notes into a strikingly simple, yet beautiful creation. It’s inspirational to see how you can stir the emotions of an entire audience simply by removing 1 note from each bar of music.
﻿
Music and arts creators can only collect and manipulate.
Whether Anthony Hopkins knows it or not, his wonderful composition didn’t originate in him. Oh sure, he’s the one who composed the music notes and either wrote them down or recorded them. But ultimately he, and everyone who enjoys this piece, needs to acknowledge the Creator of music.
God.
We humans don’t truly “create” anything. It was all created already. We can re-create, procreate, and manipulate. But we can only do that using what has already been created. Music and arts are part of creation. Part of that which was created from nothing. Only God can create something from nothing. Something can’t create itself from nothing. It’s observable in science, so this isn’t some purely theological theory I’m tossing out here.
Music manipulation leads to audience elation.
When I watched the original video, where Mr. Hopkins got to hear his composition played by an orchestra for the first time, I was reminded of how much I deeply love musical arrangements like “Sir Anthony’s”. And I smiled as I watched the audience members sway to the flow. And I got the sense he was truly and humbly moved by the outpouring of adoration. It must have been a compliment he’ll never forget. Nor should he.
My hope, for him, is that he gives thanks to God for giving him such a delightful musical gift. It would be a great pleasure to speak to Mr. Hopkins about the experience…even if I have to wait to the fully eternal part of my life…because that would mean he trusted God, too.
Ah, but pay me no mind. I’m just a sentimental ol’ dude over here tapping his toes in 3/4 time.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep these goodies all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:15
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Be fruitful and multiply – freezing didn’t mean they’d diehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/be-fruitful-and-multiply/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/be-fruitful-and-multiply/#respondThu, 18 Oct 2018 11:48:09 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18648Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Be fruitful and multiply Even if you’re not a Christian or Jew, you’ve probably heard the story of Adam and …Read the rest...

Be fruitful and multiply

Even if you’re not a Christian or Jew, you’ve probably heard the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. And you might remember how God told them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Well, the point I’m getting to is this. God didn’t merely TELL Adam and Eve to do those things. He designed them so they could absolutely do those things. And His design is so awesome, it works even when you freeze-frame some of the process. Wonder what I mean? Read or listen on, intrepid one…

Talk about frozen fruit!

Imagine you’re a 5 year old girl and a doctor tells your parents you have sickle-cell anemia. By age 11, you get so sick your parents move to another country just so you can get a bone transplant from your brother. Then, at 13, doctors decide you’ll need chemotherapy. They know kids endure this treatment much better than adults, but they also know you show signs of puberty. And they know chemo has a high risk of damaging your ovaries.

OK…now imagine doctors and/or parents who have so much foresight they remove part of your right ovary and freeze it…in hopes someone will be able to graft it back in when you mature.

Wow. That’s really thinking ahead…and it’s very optimistic.

Anyway…let’s say about 10 years later doctors DO graft four parts of that frozen ovarian tissue back into your remaining ovary. Do you think that ovary could begin growing eggs? Even if it did, could that lead to pregnancy? Would you believe me if I told you it happened?

Technology can help you be fruitful and multiply.

Yep, this is a true story…not simply an imaginary tale I dreamed up. And the young woman, in her middle twenties, became pregnant and gave birth to a baby boy…healthy and almost 7 pounds. I’ve read a couple of articles about this event, and everyone is happy about how it turned out. But I’ve yet to read if anyone else thinks it’s an incredible display of God’s design. After all, this happened despite the fact that our human gene pool is so diluted and broken now. So…

…I’ll say it. Taking parts of a 13 year old girl’s ovary, freezing them, then grafting them back in about 10 years later…and they start producing eggs…and the young woman gets pregnant…that’s…design! And not just any design. That’s infinitely complex and wonderful design only a loving God could or would do. He created the very information found in each cell of our bodies, and from His Spirit, He poured life into that information. We humans have come a long way. So far, in fact, that we can now freeze embryos and body parts and put them back into use years later.

Even though we cannot create Life…

We need to be…we should be…I am…grateful to the one true, living, loving God who encoded my cells with information. Information that said I’d have blue eyes, blond hair (well, it used to be), be a male, and have fingers and toes…and information that said my heart would beat on its own, my brain would interpret sensory experiences, and my eyes would encode and decode images in nanoseconds.

God’s information in our cells and our souls means we not only have life, but we can also be aware of our own existence. And since He designed us to be fruitful and multiply, let’s pass on that information boldly and with all the love we can muster.

To your eternal security,

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/be-fruitful-and-multiply/feed/0Be fruitful and multiply Even if you’re not a Christian or Jew, you’ve probably heard the story of Adam and … Read the rest...
Even if you’re not a Christian or Jew, you’ve probably heard the story of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. And you might remember how God told them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” Well, the point I’m getting to is this. God didn’t merely TELL Adam and Eve to do those things. He designed them so they could absolutely do those things. And His design is so awesome, it works even when you freeze-frame some of the process. Wonder what I mean? Read or listen on, intrepid one…
Talk about frozen fruit!
Imagine you’re a 5 year old girl and a doctor tells your parents you have sickle-cell anemia. By age 11, you get so sick your parents move to another country just so you can get a bone transplant from your brother. Then, at 13, doctors decide you’ll need chemotherapy. They know kids endure this treatment much better than adults, but they also know you show signs of puberty. And they know chemo has a high risk of damaging your ovaries.
OK…now imagine doctors and/or parents who have so much foresight they remove part of your right ovary and freeze it…in hopes someone will be able to graft it back in when you mature.
Wow. That’s really thinking ahead…and it’s very optimistic.
Anyway…let’s say about 10 years later doctors DO graft four parts of that frozen ovarian tissue back into your remaining ovary. Do you think that ovary could begin growing eggs? Even if it did, could that lead to pregnancy? Would you believe me if I told you it happened?
Technology can help you be fruitful and multiply.
Yep, this is a true story…not simply an imaginary tale I dreamed up. And the young woman, in her middle twenties, became pregnant and gave birth to a baby boy…healthy and almost 7 pounds. I’ve read a couple of articles about this event, and everyone is happy about how it turned out. But I’ve yet to read if anyone else thinks it’s an incredible display of God’s design. After all, this happened despite the fact that our human gene pool is so diluted and broken now. So…
…I’ll say it. Taking parts of a 13 year old girl’s ovary, freezing them, then grafting them back in about 10 years later…and they start producing eggs…and the young woman gets pregnant…that’s…design! And not just any design. That’s infinitely complex and wonderful design only a loving God could or would do. He created the very information found in each cell of our bodies, and from His Spirit, He poured life into that information. We humans have come a long way. So far, in fact, that we can now freeze embryos and body parts and put them back into use years later.
Even though we cannot create Life…
We need to be…we should be…I am…grateful to the one true, living, loving God who encoded my cells with information. Information that said I’d have blue eyes, blond hair (well, it used to be), be a male, and have fingers and toes…and information that said my heart would beat on its own, my brain would interpret sensory experiences, and my eyes would encode and decode images in nanoseconds.
God’s information in our cells and our souls means we not only have life, but we can also be aware of our own existence. And since He designed us to be fruitful and multiply, let’s pass on that information boldly and with all the love we can muster.
To your eternal security,

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know.]]>Tony Funderburkclean8:14
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Change the world today with what you do and sayhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/change-the-world/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/change-the-world/#respondWed, 17 Oct 2018 12:12:50 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18646Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Change the world today Have you ever thought you could change the world with some of your ideas? I hope you have. …Read the rest...

Change the world today

Have you ever thought you could change the world with some of your ideas? I hope you have. This world could certainly use some changing. If you’re a Christian, I’d love for you to do much more than simply have ideas. It would be great if you’d share your ideas. Your faith-based ideas are needed. And I know a place where you can discover some cool ways to start and run a business, and afford to do some of that world-changing.

Start when you change the world you personally live in every day.

Yeah, you gotta change your own world first. And that means investing in yourself. Investing in yourself gives you more tools and skills to work with, and it requires change. Whether you currently do a lot or a little, if you’re not seeing the results you’d like to see, then you gotta change.

The reason I’m talking about this today is…I know a great resource. Like I said, a place where you can discover some cool ways to start and run a business. And the great news is…you don’t need a Harvard M.B.A. to do it. You don’t even need to live in a big city. You can run a business from the comfort of your own office. And your office can be the desk you keep on one side of your living room or family room. Or even on a table in your favorite coffee shop.

Are you interested yet? Would you like to check out what I’m talking about?

Great. I’ve got a few links I can share with you. This first one is based on using what you already know about the internet to start and run a business as a marketing consultant. Use this link to check out some free training. You’ll need to have a Facebook profile and log in. But there’s probably a good chance you’re on there. Anyway, check out the video at that link. Over 2 hours of marketing consultant tips and strategies.

If you’d prefer to change the world without consulting…

You can make money by shopping for things that cost less in one place and you sell for more on Amazon. Here’s the link to the top level system for how to do that. It’s called the Proven Amazon Course, or PAC for short. When you dive into PAC, you can immerse yourself in streams of income ideas and methods. And you can be a part of a huge community of mostly like-minded people who want to do better work for themselves and their families.

The Proven Amazon Course isn’t free like the consulting video link I shared. But when you follow the system, using the tools they share, it can end up costing you nothing.

OK. There’s a couple of links to help you change the world. Starting with you…and moving on to serving others. And that’s what your Creator wants you to do. So, what are you waiting for. Click a link. And tell me what you think.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/change-the-world/feed/0Change the world today Have you ever thought you could change the world with some of your ideas? I hope you have. … Read the rest...
Have you ever thought you could change the world with some of your ideas? I hope you have. This world could certainly use some changing. If you’re a Christian, I’d love for you to do much more than simply have ideas. It would be great if you’d share your ideas. Your faith-based ideas are needed. And I know a place where you can discover some cool ways to start and run a business, and afford to do some of that world-changing.
Start when you change the world you personally live in every day.
Yeah, you gotta change your own world first. And that means investing in yourself. Investing in yourself gives you more tools and skills to work with, and it requires change. Whether you currently do a lot or a little, if you’re not seeing the results you’d like to see, then you gotta change.
The reason I’m talking about this today is…I know a great resource. Like I said, a place where you can discover some cool ways to start and run a business. And the great news is…you don’t need a Harvard M.B.A. to do it. You don’t even need to live in a big city. You can run a business from the comfort of your own office. And your office can be the desk you keep on one side of your living room or family room. Or even on a table in your favorite coffee shop.
Are you interested yet? Would you like to check out what I’m talking about?
Great. I’ve got a few links I can share with you. This first one is based on using what you already know about the internet to start and run a business as a marketing consultant. Use this link to check out some free training. You’ll need to have a Facebook profile and log in. But there’s probably a good chance you’re on there. Anyway, check out the video at that link. Over 2 hours of marketing consultant tips and strategies.
If you’d prefer to change the world without consulting…
You can make money by shopping for things that cost less in one place and you sell for more on Amazon. Here’s the link to the top level system for how to do that. It’s called the Proven Amazon Course, or PAC for short. When you dive into PAC, you can immerse yourself in streams of income ideas and methods. And you can be a part of a huge community of mostly like-minded people who want to do better work for themselves and their families.
The Proven Amazon Course isn’t free like the consulting video link I shared. But when you follow the system, using the tools they share, it can end up costing you nothing.
OK. There’s a couple of links to help you change the world. Starting with you…and moving on to serving others. And that’s what your Creator wants you to do. So, what are you waiting for. Click a link. And tell me what you think.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:08
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Sanctity of life stirs up hatred and strifehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/sanctity-of-life/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/sanctity-of-life/#commentsTue, 16 Oct 2018 12:32:29 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18644Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Recalling thoughts on the sanctity of life A few years ago, on another website I used to own I shared …Read the rest...

Recalling thoughts on the sanctity of life

A few years ago, on another website I used to own I shared a song about the sanctity of life. And I mentioned how many people say they celebrate tolerance and diversity. But they don’t include Christians in their diversity scheme. Sadly, this same behavior is still going on with no end in sight. Below is what I shared and how one of those tolerance and diversity people responded…

Talking about the sanctity of life actually stirs up hatred in some people.

~ I just recently started my new iTunes podcast. And after it was live for only a couple of days I received an email telling me that what we Christians do (or I should say what he thinks we do) is a “relic of superstition and reptilian brain thinking and must go”. That’s his way of celebrating diversity and showing extreme tolerance for beliefs different from his own. Right?

So typical…that those who spout off the most about tolerance and diversity are the least tolerant and diversified. Here’s the email in its entirety. I’d love to read your comments and thoughts about this type of lashing out.

“People without a rich and deep inner life are the ones who try so desperately to change things outside themselves. This archetype is portrayed by Agent Smith in The Matrix. If you watch The Matrix Reloaded you will notice that Agent Smith has duplicated himself over and over again until there are thousands of him. That’s what the distorted version of Christianity seeks to do as well, to try to make everyone just like them. The effects of this can be easily discerned if one is willing to open one’s mind and see that what is happening in the world today is actually a result of religious abuse and control. Religion has become a self policing system of controls and dominance, maintained by it’s members, and imposed on anyone who is not “for them”.

Any religion that teaches it’s ok to kill in the name of God is absolutely and totally useless. Divide and conquer is a relic of superstition and reptilian brain thinking and must go. God is much much bigger than all that. It’s time for you to grow up Spiritually, to come from love instead of fear, and to allow others to choose for themselves. God did not die and leave you in charge.”

That’s a fac, Jack.

No, God did not die and leave me in charge. But Jesus DID die, rose again, and gave a man named (renamed) Paul a new message to share with everyone. And that’s a message of eternal salvation for anybody who asks for it. God leaves Christians, His “body” on Earth, in charge of sharing that message.

Now, seriously…do you really want to spend your valuable time being mad at me for sharing a message of eternal life?

Yeesh…some people. You express your pro life views and how you value the sanctity of life. And you give away free tunes. You even post a tribute video to a special little girl who lost her battle with cancer at the age of two…and yet you get an email expressing utter disdain toward your “religion”. That happened to me. It happens to Christians all the time.

It’s uncanny how those who are in rebellion against God can take so much time out of their lives to tell Christians “what for”. Even when we’ve decided to leave them alone, not evangelize them, and hope someone else can water the seeds we’ve sown. Know what I mean?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And don’t share this with anyone. That way you can keep all the goodies to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/sanctity-of-life/feed/1Recalling thoughts on the sanctity of life A few years ago, on another website I used to own I shared … Read the rest...
A few years ago, on another website I used to own I shared a song about the sanctity of life. And I mentioned how many people say they celebrate tolerance and diversity. But they don’t include Christians in their diversity scheme. Sadly, this same behavior is still going on with no end in sight. Below is what I shared and how one of those tolerance and diversity people responded…

Talking about the sanctity of life actually stirs up hatred in some people.
~ I just recently started my new iTunes podcast. And after it was live for only a couple of days I received an email telling me that what we Christians do (or I should say what he thinks we do) is a “relic of superstition and reptilian brain thinking and must go”. That’s his way of celebrating diversity and showing extreme tolerance for beliefs different from his own. Right?
So typical…that those who spout off the most about tolerance and diversity are the least tolerant and diversified. Here’s the email in its entirety. I’d love to read your comments and thoughts about this type of lashing out.
“People without a rich and deep inner life are the ones who try so desperately to change things outside themselves. This archetype is portrayed by Agent Smith in The Matrix. If you watch The Matrix Reloaded you will notice that Agent Smith has duplicated himself over and over again until there are thousands of him. That’s what the distorted version of Christianity seeks to do as well, to try to make everyone just like them. The effects of this can be easily discerned if one is willing to open one’s mind and see that what is happening in the world today is actually a result of religious abuse and control. Religion has become a self policing system of controls and dominance, maintained by it’s members, and imposed on anyone who is not “for them”.
Any religion that teaches it’s ok to kill in the name of God is absolutely and totally useless. Divide and conquer is a relic of superstition and reptilian brain thinking and must go. God is much much bigger than all that. It’s time for you to grow up Spiritually, to come from love instead of fear, and to allow others to choose for themselves. God did not die and leave you in charge.”
That’s a fac, Jack.
No, God did not die and leave me in charge. But Jesus DID die, rose again, and gave a man named (renamed) Paul a new message to share with everyone. And that’s a message of eternal salvation for anybody who asks for it. God leaves Christians, His “body” on Earth, in charge of sharing that message.
Now, seriously…do you really want to spend your valuable time being mad at me for sharing a message of eternal life?

Yeesh…some people. You express your pro life views and how you value the sanctity of life. And you give away free tunes. You even post a tribute video to a special little girl who lost her battle with cancer at the age of two…and yet you get an email expressing utter disdain toward your “religion”. That happened to me. It happens to Christians all the time.
It’s uncanny how those who are in rebellion against God can take so much time out of their lives to tell Christians “what for”. Even when we’ve decided to leave them alone, not evangelize them, and hope someone else can water the seeds we’ve sown. Know what I mean?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And don’t share this with anyone. That way you can keep all the goodies to yourself.
Stay tuned,clean10:12
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Positive Outlook – don’t let yours get shookhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/positive-outlook/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/positive-outlook/#respondMon, 15 Oct 2018 12:14:18 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18642Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Do you have a positive outlook on life? There are plenty of reasons to be positive about things in this …Read the rest...

Do you have a positive outlook on life?

There are plenty of reasons to be positive about things in this world and in your life. Still…it’s good to face reality and take it head on even if it doesn’t agree with your positive outlook. The “news” is a perfect example of how emotions, outlooks on life, and even major events in life are manipulated. Don’t fall for those shameless, shady tactics.

There are three positions you can take on just about any issue:

Pessimism

Optimism

Realism

Numbers 1 and 3 can mix together. Numbers 2 and 3 can blend, too. But numbers 1 and 2 are total opposites. Now I can take an issue like unemployment and report it from either of the first two positions. First…pessimism can say “unemployment is up to 6%”. Or optimism could say 94% of people who want to work are working. The numbers represent the same thing, but they sure don’t sound the same, do they?

Here’s the best way to keep a positive outlook.

Don’t let your guard down. Keep working diligently on your personal economy, and don’t be swayed by “good news” or dismayed by “bad news”. Keep your eyes on the prize. Paul, in the Bible, says it’s good to forget what’s behind you. Keep moving forward. Even if everyone around falls, it doesn’t mean you have to. It just means they’re looking down. Not up where hope is. It’s a matter of focus.

Focus is my main focus as I move forward with a positive outlook and my eyes on the prize. I hope you’ll join me. Because we can achieve what we focus on. At least if it’s achievable at all. And most times it is, if we’re being honest with ourselves. Where is your focus? Where is your vision?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/positive-outlook/feed/0Do you have a positive outlook on life? There are plenty of reasons to be positive about things in this … Read the rest...
There are plenty of reasons to be positive about things in this world and in your life. Still…it’s good to face reality and take it head on even if it doesn’t agree with your positive outlook. The “news” is a perfect example of how emotions, outlooks on life, and even major events in life are manipulated. Don’t fall for those shameless, shady tactics.
There are three positions you can take on just about any issue:

* Pessimism
* Optimism
* Realism

Numbers 1 and 3 can mix together. Numbers 2 and 3 can blend, too. But numbers 1 and 2 are total opposites. Now I can take an issue like unemployment and report it from either of the first two positions. First…pessimism can say “unemployment is up to 6%”. Or optimism could say 94% of people who want to work are working. The numbers represent the same thing, but they sure don’t sound the same, do they?
Here’s the best way to keep a positive outlook.
Don’t let your guard down. Keep working diligently on your personal economy, and don’t be swayed by “good news” or dismayed by “bad news”. Keep your eyes on the prize. Paul, in the Bible, says it’s good to forget what’s behind you. Keep moving forward. Even if everyone around falls, it doesn’t mean you have to. It just means they’re looking down. Not up where hope is. It’s a matter of focus.
Focus is my main focus as I move forward with a positive outlook and my eyes on the prize. I hope you’ll join me. Because we can achieve what we focus on. At least if it’s achievable at all. And most times it is, if we’re being honest with ourselves. Where is your focus? Where is your vision?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean10:22
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Crazy mama is so mean – don’t get caught in betweenhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/crazy-mama-is-so-mean/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/crazy-mama-is-so-mean/#respondThu, 11 Oct 2018 11:51:57 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18640Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Crazy mama is so mean. Don’t understand her routine If you live in Florida (or several other states in America), …Read the rest...

Crazy mama is so mean. Don’t understand her routine

If you live in Florida (or several other states in America), you might be familiar with Bahama Breeze. It’s an island-themed restaurant with live island music. They used to have a couple of their restaurants in the Denver metro area, and I became one of their main featured acts. Songs I played included music by Bob Marley, Jimmy Buffett, UB40, and lots more. It was a fun, steady gig. I made friends with the gang who worked there. And they even supported, and asked me to play, my original music. So I put together a CD of songs I could sell from the stage. One of those songs talked about how this one crazy mama is so mean.
[powerpress}

Just to be clear…this crazy mama is so mean but she ain’t mama.

Southern slang and euphemisms use terms like “mama” to describe a babe. Like, “Hey Mama, wha’s your name?” Or “Hey little mama…what brings you to this lil’ corner of the world?” Ok, now that I’ve cleared that up for you…

I produced a CD of 10 songs, “Underneath That Mountain Moon”, which included a cajun inspired little number called “Crazy Mama’s So Mean”. The CD also had “Train of Thought” – “Mi Amiga” – “I Like Your Style” – “See Ya Later” – a perky instrumental called “Mexigolucky” – and a few more.

The main reason I bring all this up is because of the Crazy Mama song. Just a few days ago, a lady helped me out with a special request I had with a scheduling conflict. I gave her a copy of my “Underneath That Mountain Moon” CD. And she surprised me when she mentioned how much she enjoyed “Crazy Mama’s So Mean”. If memory serves me (and it almost always does), I don’t recall someone else singling out that song.

So, I figured I’d share the song with you and see if you get a kick out of it, too. The lyrics are below. And if you’d like to hear it, tune in to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. And be sure to let me know if you think that crazy mama is so mean.

That Crazy Mama’s So Mean

That crazy mama’s so mean…
Don’t give me rice with my beans.
I was a fool for those eyes;
Bluer than Mardi Gras skies.
But she’s hidin’ something I ain’t ever seen
That crazy mama’s so mean!

Yeah,
That crazy mama’s so mean…
Said she don’t like New Orleans.
Don’t let no bon temps roulle;
She scared the gators away.
Sure, on the outside, she’s shiny and clean, but
That crazy mama’s so mean!

She don’t take no for an answer,
But then again she don’t take yes.
What it would take just to please her
I’m sure is anybody’s guess.

Yeah,
That crazy mama’s so mean…
Don’t understand her routine.
Her bark’s as bad as her bite;
Sleep one eye open at night.
Goes from bad to worse;
Don’t get caught in between cause
That crazy mama’s so mean!

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/crazy-mama-is-so-mean/feed/0Crazy mama is so mean. Don’t understand her routine If you live in Florida (or several other states in America), … Read the rest...
If you live in Florida (or several other states in America), you might be familiar with Bahama Breeze. It’s an island-themed restaurant with live island music. They used to have a couple of their restaurants in the Denver metro area, and I became one of their main featured acts. Songs I played included music by Bob Marley, Jimmy Buffett, UB40, and lots more. It was a fun, steady gig. I made friends with the gang who worked there. And they even supported, and asked me to play, my original music. So I put together a CD of songs I could sell from the stage. One of those songs talked about how this one crazy mama is so mean.

[powerpress}
Just to be clear…this crazy mama is so mean but she ain’t mama.
Southern slang and euphemisms use terms like “mama” to describe a babe. Like, “Hey Mama, wha’s your name?” Or “Hey little mama…what brings you to this lil’ corner of the world?” Ok, now that I’ve cleared that up for you…
I produced a CD of 10 songs, “Underneath That Mountain Moon”, which included a cajun inspired little number called “Crazy Mama’s So Mean”. The CD also had “Train of Thought” – “Mi Amiga” – “I Like Your Style” – “See Ya Later” – a perky instrumental called “Mexigolucky” – and a few more.
The main reason I bring all this up is because of the Crazy Mama song. Just a few days ago, a lady helped me out with a special request I had with a scheduling conflict. I gave her a copy of my “Underneath That Mountain Moon” CD. And she surprised me when she mentioned how much she enjoyed “Crazy Mama’s So Mean”. If memory serves me (and it almost always does), I don’t recall someone else singling out that song.
So, I figured I’d share the song with you and see if you get a kick out of it, too. The lyrics are below. And if you’d like to hear it, tune in to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. And be sure to let me know if you think that crazy mama is so mean.
That Crazy Mama’s So Mean
That crazy mama’s so mean…

This t shirt design is mine

Earlier this year I was approved to upload designs and sell t shirts on Amazon. It was a pretty big deal to me. But why am I sharing that with you? Because, if you think you can come up with a winning t shirt design, you could have your own Merch store on Amazon, too. My designs tend to be from a Christian perspective. Big surprise, right? But, as you might well imagine, you can offer just about sort of t shirt design on Amazon.

Your t shirt design could be some passive income for you.

If you listen to millionaires, at least the ones willing to share, you’ll find a common theme to their success. Passive income. Merch can help you have that. I’ve sold several of my designs. Here’s a guy who shared a picture of himself wearing my “Not Getting What I Deserve” t shirt…

The cool thing about coming up with a t shirt design is that you only need to create a design once. Then, it can sell over and over again as long as you have your store up on Amazon. That’s what passive income is all about. Twenty-four hours a day sales. Just like internet marketers talk about. Sell while you sleep. Automating is fascinating.

And building a passive income stream with a t shirt design isn’t difficult.

Here’s a link where you can get access to a whole video course on how to set up your own Merch store. These guys will take you through the easy-to-follow steps, and there’s even a money back guarantee. So, if you’re looking for a cool, creative way to add some dough to your household or business, give it a go. I’m enjoying it, and I think you will too.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/t-shirt-design/feed/0This t shirt design is mine Earlier this year I was approved to upload designs and sell t shirts on … Read the rest...
Earlier this year I was approved to upload designs and sell t shirts on Amazon. It was a pretty big deal to me. But why am I sharing that with you? Because, if you think you can come up with a winning t shirt design, you could have your own Merch store on Amazon, too. My designs tend to be from a Christian perspective. Big surprise, right? But, as you might well imagine, you can offer just about sort of t shirt design on Amazon.
Your t shirt design could be some passive income for you.
If you listen to millionaires, at least the ones willing to share, you’ll find a common theme to their success. Passive income. Merch can help you have that. I’ve sold several of my designs. Here’s a guy who shared a picture of himself wearing my “Not Getting What I Deserve” t shirt…
The cool thing about coming up with a t shirt design is that you only need to create a design once. Then, it can sell over and over again as long as you have your store up on Amazon. That’s what passive income is all about. Twenty-four hours a day sales. Just like internet marketers talk about. Sell while you sleep. Automating is fascinating.
And building a passive income stream with a t shirt design isn’t difficult.Here’s a link where you can get access to a whole video course on how to set up your own Merch store. These guys will take you through the easy-to-follow steps, and there’s even a money back guarantee. So, if you’re looking for a cool, creative way to add some dough to your household or business, give it a go. I’m enjoying it, and I think you will too.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,
Discover my ebooks on Amazon.com or Smashwords

We win when we choose the right team

Back in 2009 I was in the middle of my three years as a music leader for a small Denver area church. It was (and is) a church with a strong, abolitionist, pro life foundation. And they were leading the charge to establish the personhood of the child in the mother’s womb. That whole movement was not only up against the abortion industry but also the other Christian and “pro life” organizations who thought (and think) the abolition stand is unworkable. I wanted to do what I could to encourage them to keep going. So I wrote the song, We Win, and my friend Jason produced a video.

﻿﻿

We win because God wins.

I’m talking about Christians of course. And when I say “we win”, it’s about the struggles all human beings face in this life. Too many people…most in fact…are choosing to serve themselves and thumb their noses at God and His command to love and serve others. That’s a recipe for losing and losers.

If you’re on the side against God, I urge you to reconsider before it’s too late. And it’s only too late when you take your last breath. If you’re on God’s team, I encourage you to hang in there. Remember, the last book in the Bible gives us a peek at what’s coming. So…it’s worth it…

We Win

It should be so easy
To just see we’re not free
As long as the innocent die.

To say that it’s legal
We spit on the eagle
Who stands for what we once held high.

It’s hard when we count up the cost,
And a million more lives have been lost.
True love won’t give up or give in.
Hang in there. It’s worth it. We win.

It’s not law. We got law.
And we saw that each law
Kept taking us further from truth.

When logic and reason
Don’t have their due season,
The lies end up long in the tooth.

So work hard and take time to pray
For lives to be saved every day.
True love won’t give up or give in.
Hang in there. It’s worth it. We win.

Hang in there…we have to see it through.
It’s worth it…watch how it changes you.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/we-win/feed/0We win when we choose the right team Back in 2009 I was in the middle of my three years … Read the rest...
Back in 2009 I was in the middle of my three years as a music leader for a small Denver area church. It was (and is) a church with a strong, abolitionist, pro life foundation. And they were leading the charge to establish the personhood of the child in the mother’s womb. That whole movement was not only up against the abortion industry but also the other Christian and “pro life” organizations who thought (and think) the abolition stand is unworkable. I wanted to do what I could to encourage them to keep going. So I wrote the song, We Win, and my friend Jason produced a video.
﻿﻿
We win because God wins.
I’m talking about Christians of course. And when I say “we win”, it’s about the struggles all human beings face in this life. Too many people…most in fact…are choosing to serve themselves and thumb their noses at God and His command to love and serve others. That’s a recipe for losing and losers.
If you’re on the side against God, I urge you to reconsider before it’s too late. And it’s only too late when you take your last breath. If you’re on God’s team, I encourage you to hang in there. Remember, the last book in the Bible gives us a peek at what’s coming. So…it’s worth it…
We Win
It should be so easy

To just see we’re not free

As long as the innocent die.
To say that it’s legal

We spit on the eagle

Who stands for what we once held high.
It’s hard when we count up the cost,

And a million more lives have been lost.

True love won’t give up or give in.

Hang in there. It’s worth it. We win.
It’s not law. We got law.

And we saw that each law

Kept taking us further from truth.
When logic and reason

Don’t have their due season,

The lies end up long in the tooth.
So work hard and take time to pray

For lives to be saved every day.

True love won’t give up or give in.

Hang in there. It’s worth it. We win.
Hang in there…we have to see it through.

Your light shines bright – Right?

Have you ever known someone who just loves to talk about himself (or herself)? Especially somebody who’s achieved celebrity status and wants us all to know how much they sacrificed to get there. Gimme a break. Sacrifice? Are you kidding me? If you wanna know what true sacrifice looks like, read the New Testament in the Bible. Your Creator gave 100% of His life in order for you and me to have 100% life. And that’s why I say your light shines bright when it’s turned on right.

﻿

Your light shines bright only when it’s plugged into the Source.

When you can humble yourself and admit you’re not all that and a bag of chips, you can live forever. But humility is a requirement. Not an option. You don’t get to go through life wearing a crown you designed for yourself and expect to get another one when you die. You’re not that amazing, and you’re no king. Or queen.

But guess what?

You can be a personal friend of the King. And you can talk to Him, and He’ll listen. In fact, He enjoys hearing from you when you give Him your love and trust. He loves lighting life up for you. But He’ll let you try to keep the light on by yourself, if you prefer it that way. I don’t recommend that approach. It’s so much tougher. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, your time is up…and bam! You discover how much light you missed out on.

Your light shines bright when you reflect.

Has anyone ever used a mirror to reflect light from the sun into your eyes? If so, did you notice how that reflected light messed with your eyes almost as much as looking right into the sun? Well, that’s how you can be, when you reflect the light of the Son. His light is so bright, we won’t even need the sun when we get to Heaven.

And you ARE going to Heaven…right? If you have any doubts about that, now’s the time to do something about it. You need to understand this is a limited time offer. Once you close your eyes for the last time the offer is over. So, make sure your light shines bright and be a reflection of your living, loving Creator. Or would your prefer the alternative? Darkness?

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/your-light-shines-bright/feed/0Your light shines bright – Right? Have you ever known someone who just loves to talk about himself (or herself)? … Read the rest...
Have you ever known someone who just loves to talk about himself (or herself)? Especially somebody who’s achieved celebrity status and wants us all to know how much they sacrificed to get there. Gimme a break. Sacrifice? Are you kidding me? If you wanna know what true sacrifice looks like, read the New Testament in the Bible. Your Creator gave 100% of His life in order for you and me to have 100% life. And that’s why I say your light shines bright when it’s turned on right.
﻿
Your light shines bright only when it’s plugged into the Source.
When you can humble yourself and admit you’re not all that and a bag of chips, you can live forever. But humility is a requirement. Not an option. You don’t get to go through life wearing a crown you designed for yourself and expect to get another one when you die. You’re not that amazing, and you’re no king. Or queen.
But guess what?
You can be a personal friend of the King. And you can talk to Him, and He’ll listen. In fact, He enjoys hearing from you when you give Him your love and trust. He loves lighting life up for you. But He’ll let you try to keep the light on by yourself, if you prefer it that way. I don’t recommend that approach. It’s so much tougher. And just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, your time is up…and bam! You discover how much light you missed out on.
Your light shines bright when you reflect.
Has anyone ever used a mirror to reflect light from the sun into your eyes? If so, did you notice how that reflected light messed with your eyes almost as much as looking right into the sun? Well, that’s how you can be, when you reflect the light of the Son. His light is so bright, we won’t even need the sun when we get to Heaven.
And you ARE going to Heaven…right? If you have any doubts about that, now’s the time to do something about it. You need to understand this is a limited time offer. Once you close your eyes for the last time the offer is over. So, make sure your light shines bright and be a reflection of your living, loving Creator. Or would your prefer the alternative? Darkness?
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff. Or Subscribe to my Podcast on iTunes – OR Google Play OR Player.fm OR other links below.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean7:45
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Toxic masculinity and hatred for divinityhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/toxic-masculinity/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/toxic-masculinity/#commentsMon, 01 Oct 2018 11:05:36 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18579Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Toxic masculinity – a cunning, conniving label Some would say…check that…many would say…check that…most would say, if given the opportunity, …Read the rest...

Toxic masculinity – a cunning, conniving label

Some would say…check that…many would say…check that…most would say, if given the opportunity, I suffer from toxic masculinity. That’s a label, until recently, I hadn’t heard before. And it’s a clever (translate: cunning and conniving) label. Because most people realize when something’s toxic, it’s bad. So, whoever came up with “toxic masculinity” probably spent a little time plotting things out. I give ’em credit for being clever. But I subtract all points and give them a zero for being against God.

Toxic masculinity is actually oxymoronic.

Being masculine is good. In fact, speaking as a man (because, without a doubt, I am one) I can say masculinity is awesome! Of course, being toxic (poisonous, unpleasant, and other synonyms) is bad. As chance would have it, I’m dealing with a toxic issue in my own life, but it has nothing to do with being masculine.

Anyway…just because you were born a male doesn’t mean you’re suffering or will suffer from toxic masculinity. In fact, when you get right down to it, that label is a non sequitur. (for recovering public school grads that means: a conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement). Masculinity can never, and will never, make you toxic. Being stupid and hating God CAN and WILL make you toxic. And that’s not just for guys.

Women can be toxic, too.

“Gasp! Did he just say what it sounded like he said?!”

Yes, women can be toxic, and it has absolutely zero to do with their femininity. So, there’s also no toxic femininity. Just in case there’s someone out there working on that plan.

Your personal toxicity comes from rejecting Divinity.

Not all people who turn their backs on God are toxic. At least not outwardly. Many atheists are generous, soft-hearted, and even seem to care about their fellow man (yes, I said man to describe all humans, so sue me). I’ve known some atheists who seemed to have more love in their hearts than some Christians I’ve known. But getting back to that whole “toxic” thing…atheists might not be outwardly toxic, but they ARE toxic to God.

Sure, that sounds harsh. The truth often does. But even if you hate God right now…or you just don’t believe He exists… you don’t have to end up as toxic waste for eternity. You can be dunked in a cleaning solution and come out feeling like a new man. Or woman. Because you’ll be one.

Don’t buy into all that toxic masculinity label stuff. If you’re a man, be masculine. Be strong. And don’t be afraid to be stronger than women. Not so you can dominate them. So you can protect them. Care for them. Watch over them and give them at least a little sense of security. It’s a God-created hierarchy. Embrace it. Don’t deny the role God gave you. When you accept your Creator’s designing ways, you can live toxin free forever.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/toxic-masculinity/feed/2Toxic masculinity – a cunning, conniving label Some would say…check that…many would say…check that…most would say, if given the opportunity, … Read the rest...
Some would say…check that…many would say…check that…most would say, if given the opportunity, I suffer from toxic masculinity. That’s a label, until recently, I hadn’t heard before. And it’s a clever (translate: cunning and conniving) label. Because most people realize when something’s toxic, it’s bad. So, whoever came up with “toxic masculinity” probably spent a little time plotting things out. I give ’em credit for being clever. But I subtract all points and give them a zero for being against God.
Toxic masculinity is actually oxymoronic.
Being masculine is good. In fact, speaking as a man (because, without a doubt, I am one) I can say masculinity is awesome! Of course, being toxic (poisonous, unpleasant, and other synonyms) is bad. As chance would have it, I’m dealing with a toxic issue in my own life, but it has nothing to do with being masculine.
Anyway…just because you were born a male doesn’t mean you’re suffering or will suffer from toxic masculinity. In fact, when you get right down to it, that label is a non sequitur. (for recovering public school grads that means: a conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement). Masculinity can never, and will never, make you toxic. Being stupid and hating God CAN and WILL make you toxic. And that’s not just for guys.
Women can be toxic, too.
“Gasp! Did he just say what it sounded like he said?!”
Yes, women can be toxic, and it has absolutely zero to do with their femininity. So, there’s also no toxic femininity. Just in case there’s someone out there working on that plan.
Your personal toxicity comes from rejecting Divinity.
Not all people who turn their backs on God are toxic. At least not outwardly. Many atheists are generous, soft-hearted, and even seem to care about their fellow man (yes, I said man to describe all humans, so sue me). I’ve known some atheists who seemed to have more love in their hearts than some Christians I’ve known. But getting back to that whole “toxic” thing…atheists might not be outwardly toxic, but they ARE toxic to God.
Sure, that sounds harsh. The truth often does. But even if you hate God right now…or you just don’t believe He exists… you don’t have to end up as toxic waste for eternity. You can be dunked in a cleaning solution and come out feeling like a new man. Or woman. Because you’ll be one.
Don’t buy into all that toxic masculinity label stuff. If you’re a man, be masculine. Be strong. And don’t be afraid to be stronger than women. Not so you can dominate them. So you can protect them. Care for them. Watch over them and give them at least a little sense of security. It’s a God-created hierarchy. Embrace it. Don’t deny the role God gave you. When you accept your Creator’s designing ways, you can live toxin free forever.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today, and I’ll send you some free rhymes and reasons right away. Music, a book, and lots of good faith, hope, and love stuff.
And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,
Discover my ebooks on clean7:12
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He is not a she and it’s important to you and mehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/he-is-not-a-she/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/he-is-not-a-she/#respondSat, 29 Sep 2018 11:23:26 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18551Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

He is not a she and never will be. An article popped up on my radar this morning, and I …Read the rest...

He is not a she and never will be.

An article popped up on my radar this morning, and I couldn’t help but believe how farfetched it would have sounded just a few short decades ago. The whole piece centered on “acceptable” pronouns we can or can’t use for others. A professor at the University of Toronto prefers to be called “they” instead of he. And the article used nearly 900 words to defend that position. Talk about eye-roll content. Well, the male professor is a man. He is not a she or a they or even an it. Although I’m more tempted to use “it” because of how ridiculous it is to know this guy is an actual “professor”.

And this all relates to why I actually started writing this post today. Because of how many Christians use the wrong pronoun to describe the Church.

The Church is the Body of Christ. And He is not a she.

There I said it. And that should be enough, right there, to stop using pronouns like “she” and “her” to describe the Church. Sure, I know it’s popular to call the Body of Christ “The Church” these days. And it isn’t wrong. But it’s clearly evident how that neutralizes who the Church is. It is the Body of Christ. And is Christ a woman? (you should be able to immediately and emphatically say “No!”)

I saw a link, from a guy I’m connected to on a social media channel, that led to a YouTube video. The title was “Rethinking Church”. So, I clicked the link and watched the video…which was a repurposed podcast recording. Somewhere in the middle of the recording a glaring contradiction jumped out. The guy was giving a speech or a sermon to a church (he mentioned it was about 10 years ago), and he kept referring to the Church as “she” and “her”.

But then he pointed out how the Church can’t be separated from Christ because He IS the Church all Christians are a part of. We’re all part of His body. If He cannot, and is not supposed to be, separate from the Church, how can the Church be a “she” or a “her”. (bonus points if you wanted to shout “He can’t!” just then)

He is not a she and He tells us that over and over again.

If you’re a Christian, you know the Bible is God’s word. Right? So, if God expressly says Jesus is a man, we can accept that, no questions asked. Right? And if God says Jesus is His Son, we can know, without a doubt, that God had no daughters. Right? And if God describes Himself as “he” or “him” or “the Man“, there’s no way He can be a “she”. Right?

Right.

Why is this important to you and me?

Because Jesus designed everything. And He made things dependable. He wants us to know how we work and how our world works and how our universe works. You’re not an accident. Not the product of random chance. Time and dirt did not make you. Jesus did. And He wants you to grow and learn…forever. But you can’t do that when even the simplest things perplex you.

Like what pronoun to use for a man or a woman.

Are you uncertain whether a man is a man or a woman is a woman? Or what pronouns to use? Then, you might be in danger of eternal existence apart from your living, loving Creator. If that doesn’t scare you, it should. Because you’ll be a universe of one where you’ll forever wish you had acknowledged you were either a he or a she who trusted Jesus.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get the latest rhymes and reasons delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/he-is-not-a-she/feed/0He is not a she and never will be. An article popped up on my radar this morning, and I … Read the rest...
An article popped up on my radar this morning, and I couldn’t help but believe how farfetched it would have sounded just a few short decades ago. The whole piece centered on “acceptable” pronouns we can or can’t use for others. A professor at the University of Toronto prefers to be called “they” instead of he. And the article used nearly 900 words to defend that position. Talk about eye-roll content. Well, the male professor is a man. He is not a she or a they or even an it. Although I’m more tempted to use “it” because of how ridiculous it is to know this guy is an actual “professor”.
And this all relates to why I actually started writing this post today. Because of how many Christians use the wrong pronoun to describe the Church.
The Church is the Body of Christ. And He is not a she.
There I said it. And that should be enough, right there, to stop using pronouns like “she” and “her” to describe the Church. Sure, I know it’s popular to call the Body of Christ “The Church” these days. And it isn’t wrong. But it’s clearly evident how that neutralizes who the Church is. It is the Body of Christ. And is Christ a woman? (you should be able to immediately and emphatically say “No!”)
I saw a link, from a guy I’m connected to on a social media channel, that led to a YouTube video. The title was “Rethinking Church”. So, I clicked the link and watched the video…which was a repurposed podcast recording. Somewhere in the middle of the recording a glaring contradiction jumped out. The guy was giving a speech or a sermon to a church (he mentioned it was about 10 years ago), and he kept referring to the Church as “she” and “her”.
But then he pointed out how the Church can’t be separated from Christ because He IS the Church all Christians are a part of. We’re all part of His body. If He cannot, and is not supposed to be, separate from the Church, how can the Church be a “she” or a “her”. (bonus points if you wanted to shout “He can’t!” just then)
He is not a she and He tells us that over and over again.
If you’re a Christian, you know the Bible is God’s word. Right? So, if God expressly says Jesus is a man, we can accept that, no questions asked. Right? And if God says Jesus is His Son, we can know, without a doubt, that God had no daughters. Right? And if God describes Himself as “he” or “him” or “the Man“, there’s no way He can be a “she”. Right?
Right.
Why is this important to you and me?
Because Jesus designed everything. And He made things dependable. He wants us to know how we work and how our world works and how our universe works. You’re not an accident. Not the product of random chance. Time and dirt did not make you. Jesus did. And He wants you to grow and learn…forever. But you can’t do that when even the simplest things perplex you.
Like what pronoun to use for a man or a woman.
Are you uncertain whether a man is a man or a woman is a woman? Or what pronouns to use? Then, you might be in danger of eternal existence apart from your living, loving Creator. If that doesn’t scare you, it should. Because you’ll be a universe of one where you’ll forever wish you had acknowledged you were either a he or a she who trusted Jesus.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get the latest rhymes and reasons delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for th...]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:45
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Grace to me enables me to seehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/grace-to-me/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/grace-to-me/#respondTue, 25 Sep 2018 12:47:30 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18547Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Grace to me almost unbelievably This is gonna be about me. But…if you’re looking for some answers for your own …Read the rest...

Grace to me almost unbelievably

This is gonna be about me. But…if you’re looking for some answers for your own life, you should keep reading. Because when it comes to needing answers, solutions, and hope, I’m just like you. My life has not been the picture of perfection. Far from it. Even though I listened to my Grandmother pray for me, when I was 13. And even though I accepted Jesus as my savior as a result…I didn’t always live out a life that demonstrated God’s grace to me.

For 25 years I made my living playing music. Five, six, and even seven days or nights a week. From pop to country, blues to jazz, and rock to standards I sang ’em all. And playing music helped me see a whole lot of America. I traveled from West to East and South to North and most points in between. Wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

But I would like to go back and right the wrongs.

I’m mostly an introvert. Now, you might think an introvert would never wanna stand up in front of crowds and sing. But that’s not the kind of introvert I am. Playing live music gave me a way to interact with people without the commitment of time and energy needed for one-on-one relationships. And that lack of commitment spilled over into the “relationships” I had with members of the opposite sex.

Based on standards of the world, I guess you could say I was a decent looking guy. And you put that together with a better than average singing voice and you’ve got a combination for “getting girls” as we used to say. Before I became a full-time musician, I had two long-term (about 5 years each) relationships. And after those both took disastrous turns, I decided I’d be a “play-the-field” kinda guy.

And that’s why I’m so glad for God’s grace to me.

You’re not gonna get a tell-all or kiss and tell story from me. Let me just say I took advantage of women. In my defense, I can honestly say I wasn’t always the love ’em and leave ’em dude. In fact, I was mostly a nice guy to them. At least, when I compared myself to so many other musicians I knew and saw.

But that’s where sin worked its dark magic. The more I convinced myself I wasn’t like those other guys, the more I could get away with sinful behavior. But you never truly get away with it. You either pay right away, or you pay later with guilt and shame. That was me. Once I met a special girl who I didn’t want to “love and leave”, I knew I had been comparing myself to the world. And I realized how that comparison gave me a false view of myself. And that’s where God’s grace to me kicked in. It’s His grace to me that enables me to see myself as I truly am.

I could’ve wallowed in guilt and shame for the hurt I caused those women…and myself. But I needed to realize how Jesus died to provide redemption from ALL sins. Even all of mine. My sinful nature caused Him such agony. Knowing that made me thankful He hadn’t just struck me with lightning in the middle of my destructive deeds.

Grace to me inspires me to share the news of grace to you.

Whether you know it or not, you absolutely need the grace of God. You aren’t rich enough, pretty enough, and definitely not good enough to ever, ever, ever go to Heaven. But you ARE created in the image and likeness of God. And He hopes you’ll want to be with Him forever. In Heaven…and forever in His life-giving love.

God is merciful and patient. He’s waiting for you to decide. And while He’s waiting, you might be doing all kinds of things you shouldn’t be doing. Believe me, I know because I’ve been right there with you. I still sin. Trusting Jesus to be your savior doesn’t make you perfect. But trusting in Him brings His perfection into your heart and soul. His eternal life becomes your own. Now, that’s grace beyond comprehension. And it’s a FREE gift.

And who doesn’t like free gifts?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get the latest rhymes and reasons delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with everyone you know. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/grace-to-me/feed/0Grace to me almost unbelievably This is gonna be about me. But…if you’re looking for some answers for your own … Read the rest...
This is gonna be about me. But…if you’re looking for some answers for your own life, you should keep reading. Because when it comes to needing answers, solutions, and hope, I’m just like you. My life has not been the picture of perfection. Far from it. Even though I listened to my Grandmother pray for me, when I was 13. And even though I accepted Jesus as my savior as a result…I didn’t always live out a life that demonstrated God’s grace to me.
For 25 years I made my living playing music. Five, six, and even seven days or nights a week. From pop to country, blues to jazz, and rock to standards I sang ’em all. And playing music helped me see a whole lot of America. I traveled from West to East and South to North and most points in between. Wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.
But I would like to go back and right the wrongs.
I’m mostly an introvert. Now, you might think an introvert would never wanna stand up in front of crowds and sing. But that’s not the kind of introvert I am. Playing live music gave me a way to interact with people without the commitment of time and energy needed for one-on-one relationships. And that lack of commitment spilled over into the “relationships” I had with members of the opposite sex.
Based on standards of the world, I guess you could say I was a decent looking guy. And you put that together with a better than average singing voice and you’ve got a combination for “getting girls” as we used to say. Before I became a full-time musician, I had two long-term (about 5 years each) relationships. And after those both took disastrous turns, I decided I’d be a “play-the-field” kinda guy.
And that’s why I’m so glad for God’s grace to me.
You’re not gonna get a tell-all or kiss and tell story from me. Let me just say I took advantage of women. In my defense, I can honestly say I wasn’t always the love ’em and leave ’em dude. In fact, I was mostly a nice guy to them. At least, when I compared myself to so many other musicians I knew and saw.
But that’s where sin worked its dark magic. The more I convinced myself I wasn’t like those other guys, the more I could get away with sinful behavior. But you never truly get away with it. You either pay right away, or you pay later with guilt and shame. That was me. Once I met a special girl who I didn’t want to “love and leave”, I knew I had been comparing myself to the world. And I realized how that comparison gave me a false view of myself. And that’s where God’s grace to me kicked in. It’s His grace to me that enables me to see myself as I truly am.
I could’ve wallowed in guilt and shame for the hurt I caused those women…and myself. But I needed to realize how Jesus died to provide redemption from ALL sins. Even all of mine. My sinful nature caused Him such agony. Knowing that made me thankful He hadn’t just struck me with lightning in the middle of my destructive deeds.
Grace to me inspires me to share the news of grace to you.
Whether you know it or not, you absolutely need the grace of God. You aren’t rich enough, pretty enough, and definitely not good enough to ever, ever, ever go to Heaven. But you ARE created in the image and likeness of God. And He hopes you’ll want to be with Him forever. In Heaven…and forever in His life-giving love.
God is merciful and patient. He’s waiting for you to decide. And while He’s waiting, you might be doing all kinds of things you shouldn’t be doing. Believe me, I know because I’ve been right there with you. I still sin. Trusting Jesus to be your savior doesn’t make you perfect.]]>Tony Funderburkclean7:37
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I might be right when I shed this lighthttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/i-might-be-right/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/i-might-be-right/#respondMon, 24 Sep 2018 12:31:54 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18549Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

I might be right. Hey, I’ve been right before. Any time you and I disagree on something, there’s the possibility …Read the rest...

I might be right. Hey, I’ve been right before.

Any time you and I disagree on something, there’s the possibility (even if it’s only a tiny one) I might be right. At least from our limited human perspectives that’s true. You might think I’m wrong about something. And I might think your opposite opinion is wrong. But then…there’s the truth. The truth won’t be wrong. And if I’m on the side of truth, I’m right. Right?

Billy Joel had a hit song, back in 1980 called “You May Be Right”.

I remember covering that song many times during my live performance career days. The reason I bring it up is because it had these lines…

Turn out the light
Don’t try to save me
You may be wrong for all I know
You may be right.

That kind of sums up the way the world wants to deal with guys like me. “Turn out the light. Don’t try to save me.” Or as my Dad used to say, “Don’t confuse me with the facts. My mind’s made up.”

Any argument or disagreement can either lead to solutions and agreement or worse problems and separation. But there’s nothing in life more important than where you’re headed when you die. I say there’s a Heaven and a hell, and that we’re all gonna be in one place or the other. Others say there’s only an endless void. And no matter how much you disagree with me, I might be right. So…

What If I’m Right?

You think it’s wrong to talk of only one Way.
Live and let live is something you always say.
How could there be a God who no one can see?
When bad things happen, you say “Where can He be?”

You want some proof; maybe a word or a sign
That our existence could be all by design.
I say the proof is in the feel of a song.
But it’s invisible so you say I’m wrong.

But what if I’m right? What if it’s true
All of these things I’ve been sayin’ to you?
What if you die and it’s not the end?
What if your life is nothing you can defend?
You think I’m wrong…and that I don’t walk in the light,
But what if I’m right?

So many people living inside a dream
Making a choice that even God won’t redeem.
I say choose Jesus because this life’s not long.
You say it’s nonsense, and you tell me I’m wrong.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/i-might-be-right/feed/0I might be right. Hey, I’ve been right before. Any time you and I disagree on something, there’s the possibility … Read the rest...
Any time you and I disagree on something, there’s the possibility (even if it’s only a tiny one) I might be right. At least from our limited human perspectives that’s true. You might think I’m wrong about something. And I might think your opposite opinion is wrong. But then…there’s the truth. The truth won’t be wrong. And if I’m on the side of truth, I’m right. Right?
Billy Joel had a hit song, back in 1980 called “You May Be Right”.
I remember covering that song many times during my live performance career days. The reason I bring it up is because it had these lines…
Turn out the light

Don’t try to save me

You may be wrong for all I know

You may be right.
That kind of sums up the way the world wants to deal with guys like me. “Turn out the light. Don’t try to save me.” Or as my Dad used to say, “Don’t confuse me with the facts. My mind’s made up.”
Any argument or disagreement can either lead to solutions and agreement or worse problems and separation. But there’s nothing in life more important than where you’re headed when you die. I say there’s a Heaven and a hell, and that we’re all gonna be in one place or the other. Others say there’s only an endless void. And no matter how much you disagree with me, I might be right. So…
What If I’m Right?
You think it’s wrong to talk of only one Way.

Live and let live is something you always say.

How could there be a God who no one can see?

When bad things happen, you say “Where can He be?”
You want some proof; maybe a word or a sign

That our existence could be all by design.

I say the proof is in the feel of a song.

But it’s invisible so you say I’m wrong.
But what if I’m right? What if it’s true

Backwards and forwards – it’s all so confusing

If you’re like most humans…and you are…then you like things to make sense. You don’t like it when life gets all backwards and forwards and discombobulated. (I love that two dollar word) And it makes total sense that you want things to make sense. But why is that? Since we’re all supposed to be here by accident anyway. Random mutations over millions of years caused us to form. Doesn’t make any sense. So, why would anyone believe it or trust it?

Backwards and forwards describes our own solar system.

And it just doesn’t seem to make any sense…according to the evolutionary theories anyway. They say our solar system formed from a cloud of swirling gas (which magically appeared by the way). And if that were true, all the planets would be a lot more alike than they are. But they’re not.

A third of the planets in our solar system rotate the opposite direction of the rest of the planets. Pluto, Uranus, and Venus. (yes, I’m including Pluto as a planet…so sue me) That just doesn’t make sense. All nine planets should be rotating in the same direction.

And what about all those 200 moons? According to the parameters of evolutionary theories, they should all be spinning in the same direction, too. But they’re spinning backwards and forwards. About 30 of them are backwards from all the rest. And get this…Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, and Uranus have moons spinning in both directions. Can you imagine all those aliens trying to enjoy a day at the beach with all those gravity changes?

“The Moon’s orbital plane is inclined 18.5° – 28.5° to Earth’s equatorial plane. (The Moon’s orbital plane precesses between those values over an 18.6-year cycle.) This is a considerable inclination when one recognizes that the Moon possesses 82.9% of the angular momentum of the Earth-Moon system. No other planet-satellite system comes close to this amount.”

Did you get that? No other planet-satellite system comes close to this amount. And no other planet in our solar system has human beings.

Could it be that we, and our little blue planet, really ARE unique in all the universe? If the reason it’s all here can be attributed to a designer and not random mutations, the answer is a definite “YES!”

And planets should be positioned like moons.

Just like moons should be spinning around the equator of their planets, the planets should be spinning around the equator of the sun. But they’re not. They’re off by about 7 degrees.

So, what’s with all this backward and forwards mashup? Well…use your imagination.

Imagine you’re an artist. Now, imagine you’re the most magnificent artist ever. And you decide to paint a picture that defies all expectations. You say, “If everyone says an aspen tree should have green leaves, I’ll give my aspen trees rainbow leaves.” Or you creatively splash colors in parts of the painting where those colors have never been before. After all, you’re the master. And this is your masterpiece.

You decide the points of interest in your painting will be backwards and forwards from conventional thinking. How dare anyone tell you it’s not right. You’re the artista supremo. And the best part is…when you complete the painting, it scores. All the contradictions become the most beautiful work of art the world has ever known.

God is the Designer. And He makes it all work.

I can imagine how He must look at the universe He created and say, “This will confound those who hate me. And it will amaze those who love me.”

Which one are you? Confounded? Or amazed?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/backwards-and-forwards/feed/0Backwards and forwards – it’s all so confusing If you’re like most humans…and you are…then you like things to make … Read the rest...
If you’re like most humans…and you are…then you like things to make sense. You don’t like it when life gets all backwards and forwards and discombobulated. (I love that two dollar word) And it makes total sense that you want things to make sense. But why is that? Since we’re all supposed to be here by accident anyway. Random mutations over millions of years caused us to form. Doesn’t make any sense. So, why would anyone believe it or trust it?
Backwards and forwards describes our own solar system.
And it just doesn’t seem to make any sense…according to the evolutionary theories anyway. They say our solar system formed from a cloud of swirling gas (which magically appeared by the way). And if that were true, all the planets would be a lot more alike than they are. But they’re not.
A third of the planets in our solar system rotate the opposite direction of the rest of the planets. Pluto, Uranus, and Venus. (yes, I’m including Pluto as a planet…so sue me) That just doesn’t make sense. All nine planets should be rotating in the same direction.
And what about all those 200 moons? According to the parameters of evolutionary theories, they should all be spinning in the same direction, too. But they’re spinning backwards and forwards. About 30 of them are backwards from all the rest. And get this…Jupiter, Neptune, Saturn, and Uranus have moons spinning in both directions. Can you imagine all those aliens trying to enjoy a day at the beach with all those gravity changes?
And speaking of moon madness…
The way gravity works, the orbit of each of the moons should be around the equator of each of the planets. But even good ol’ Earth’s moon is inclined to disagree (pardon the pun). Here’s what Dr. Walt Brown said about the position of our moon in relation to Earth:
“The Moon’s orbital plane is inclined 18.5° – 28.5° to Earth’s equatorial plane. (The Moon’s orbital plane precesses between those values over an 18.6-year cycle.) This is a considerable inclination when one recognizes that the Moon possesses 82.9% of the angular momentum of the Earth-Moon system. No other planet-satellite system comes close to this amount.”
Did you get that? No other planet-satellite system comes close to this amount. And no other planet in our solar system has human beings.
Could it be that we, and our little blue planet, really ARE unique in all the universe? If the reason it’s all here can be attributed to a designer and not random mutations, the answer is a definite “YES!”
And planets should be positioned like moons.
Just like moons should be spinning around the equator of their planets, the planets should be spinning around the equator of the sun. But they’re not. They’re off by about 7 degrees.
So, what’s with all this backward and forwards mashup? Well…use your imagination.
Imagine you’re an artist. Now, imagine you’re the most magnificent artist ever. And you decide to paint a picture that defies all expectations. You say, “If everyone says an aspen tree should have green leaves, I’ll give my aspen trees rainbow leaves.” Or you creatively splash colors in parts of the painting where those colors have never been before. After all, you’re the master. And this is your masterpiece.
You decide the points of interest in your painting will be backwards and forwards from conventional thinking. How dare anyone tell you it’s not right. You’re the artista supremo. And the best part is…when you complete the painting, it scores.]]>Tony Funderburkclean
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Trust your heart is not a good place to starthttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/trust-your-heart/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/trust-your-heart/#respondSat, 22 Sep 2018 12:38:50 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18543Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Don’t trust your heart

Let me be clear. I’m not talking about that dark red muscle, in your chest, pumping blood all day and night. When I say don’t trust your heart, I’m talking about your very core. The inner YOU that only God knows. He says “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” Does that sound like something you should trust?

Trust your heart and risk the consequences.

I can tell you, from personal experience, how trusting your heart to lead you in the right direction can mess you up. My heart got me in trouble more than once in my life. And no, I’m not gonna share the dirty details. If you can’t take my word for it, you might as well go listen to some more candy-coated Christian messages somewhere else. This isn’t a narcissistic rant to try and form a deeper connection with my readers and listeners.

Your eternal fate is important to me. Even if it isn’t to you. And that’s because God’s love and Word are in me. If it wasn’t for Him, I’d probably just tell you to go jump in a lake. Or take a long walk off a short pier.

But God loves me. He made a way for me to live forever. And He says all I have to do is trust and believe in that Way. But He also wants me not to keep this exciting news all to myself. I need to share it…just like He shared His enduring love and mercy with little ol’ me.

So…that’s why I’m here day after day. Year after year. To share the message that there’s a living, loving God who wants us to experience glorious love we can only imagine. And to let you know that, just like the love you share with your fellow human beings, God’s love is not unconditional. He has one condition, and one condition only. Trust Jesus.

Don’t trust your heart to lead you in the right direction.

Read the Bible and get the facts. Let your brain do the talking and let your heart be changed. Why would you not want eternal life in paradise?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/trust-your-heart/feed/0Don’t trust your heart Let me be clear. I’m not talking about that dark red muscle, in your chest, pumping … Read the rest...
Let me be clear. I’m not talking about that dark red muscle, in your chest, pumping blood all day and night. When I say don’t trust your heart, I’m talking about your very core. The inner YOU that only God knows. He says “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it?” Does that sound like something you should trust?
Trust your heart and risk the consequences.
I can tell you, from personal experience, how trusting your heart to lead you in the right direction can mess you up. My heart got me in trouble more than once in my life. And no, I’m not gonna share the dirty details. If you can’t take my word for it, you might as well go listen to some more candy-coated Christian messages somewhere else. This isn’t a narcissistic rant to try and form a deeper connection with my readers and listeners.
Your eternal fate is important to me. Even if it isn’t to you. And that’s because God’s love and Word are in me. If it wasn’t for Him, I’d probably just tell you to go jump in a lake. Or take a long walk off a short pier.
But God loves me. He made a way for me to live forever. And He says all I have to do is trust and believe in that Way. But He also wants me not to keep this exciting news all to myself. I need to share it…just like He shared His enduring love and mercy with little ol’ me.
So…that’s why I’m here day after day. Year after year. To share the message that there’s a living, loving God who wants us to experience glorious love we can only imagine. And to let you know that, just like the love you share with your fellow human beings, God’s love is not unconditional. He has one condition, and one condition only. Trust Jesus.
Don’t trust your heart to lead you in the right direction.
Read the Bible and get the facts. Let your brain do the talking and let your heart be changed. Why would you not want eternal life in paradise?
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:01
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Once upon a time I began to make a rhymehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/once-upon-a-time/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/once-upon-a-time/#respondFri, 21 Sep 2018 12:16:29 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18541Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Once Upon A Time Have you ever thought about those four words together? Once upon a time. They don’t make …Read the rest...

Once Upon A Time

Have you ever thought about those four words together? Once upon a time. They don’t make any sense under close examination. But they make total sense to kids and people who read and write to kids. Or basically to anyone who’s ever been a kid and heard countless stories begin with once upon a time. But I didn’t actually start out to talk about that phrase, so I’ll get back to my point.

Once upon a time I started writing poems.

After I showed those poems to friends and got positive responses, I decided I was (or I’d be) a poet. It was a done deal. In my head anyway. But that’s basically how anything you succeed at, in life, happens. You first think it. Then you decide to do it. Then, you keep doing it till you’re truly good at it. And then, “overnight” you’re a success.

Yeah, right.

Someone said, in order to be a success, you have to “put in your ten thousand hours. I understand what they mean. But I also think it’s more than that. I believe you just keep on keepin’ on. Past the ten thousand hours. And past the point of despair, doubt, and fear of failure. You have to believe your success will come even if or when no one else does.

And find the strength to go from your once upon a time to your happily ever after.

Where is that strength? Do you think it comes from somewhere deep inside you? And do you simply need to man up or woman up to dig deeper and achieve that proverbial 110%? (I hate that 110% thing, but I’ll save that for another time)

No, the strength you need to power past your obstacles and keep the fire burning isn’t in you. At least not if you’re disconnected from the source of Life and love. Without tapping into the God’s mercy, love, forgiveness, and grace, the most you can hope for is a temporary fix.

So, I urge you to make today your once upon a time. If you haven’t already, make this the day you’ll look beyond those ten thousand hour. Trust the the Lord of time and all there is. His strength and Life will sustain you forever. And that’s what I call a true happily ever after.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/once-upon-a-time/feed/0Once Upon A Time Have you ever thought about those four words together? Once upon a time. They don’t make … Read the rest...
Have you ever thought about those four words together? Once upon a time. They don’t make any sense under close examination. But they make total sense to kids and people who read and write to kids. Or basically to anyone who’s ever been a kid and heard countless stories begin with once upon a time. But I didn’t actually start out to talk about that phrase, so I’ll get back to my point.
Once upon a time I started writing poems.
After I showed those poems to friends and got positive responses, I decided I was (or I’d be) a poet. It was a done deal. In my head anyway. But that’s basically how anything you succeed at, in life, happens. You first think it. Then you decide to do it. Then, you keep doing it till you’re truly good at it. And then, “overnight” you’re a success.
Yeah, right.
Someone said, in order to be a success, you have to “put in your ten thousand hours. I understand what they mean. But I also think it’s more than that. I believe you just keep on keepin’ on. Past the ten thousand hours. And past the point of despair, doubt, and fear of failure. You have to believe your success will come even if or when no one else does.
And find the strength to go from your once upon a time to your happily ever after.
Where is that strength? Do you think it comes from somewhere deep inside you? And do you simply need to man up or woman up to dig deeper and achieve that proverbial 110%? (I hate that 110% thing, but I’ll save that for another time)
No, the strength you need to power past your obstacles and keep the fire burning isn’t in you. At least not if you’re disconnected from the source of Life and love. Without tapping into the God’s mercy, love, forgiveness, and grace, the most you can hope for is a temporary fix.
So, I urge you to make today your once upon a time. If you haven’t already, make this the day you’ll look beyond those ten thousand hour. Trust the the Lord of time and all there is. His strength and Life will sustain you forever. And that’s what I call a true happily ever after.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean4:29
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Drifting sands distant lands and the rhythm in my handshttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/drifting-sands/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/drifting-sands/#respondThu, 20 Sep 2018 12:22:22 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18475Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Drifting sands are rhythm in my hands This morning, like too many mornings this year, I woke up before getting …Read the rest...

Drifting sands are rhythm in my hands

This morning, like too many mornings this year, I woke up before getting enough sleep. And I’m dealing with some issues that restful, recuperative sleep would help. So, of course, I decided to wallow in my misery and make a list of all the things people better watch out for around me today. Not! No, I started thinking about some of the lullabies for kids I’ve written. And I wondered if any of them would help ME sleep. Then, Drifting Sands popped into my head.

As you listen to or read the lyrics, notice the rhythm. Every sentence in each verse has four syllables. And the chorus has a calming one-two-three, one-two-three-four-five beat. So each of those lines equals two lines of the verses. Until you get to the last line in the chorus. Then, with the word “And” that line becomes the only one with an odd number of syllables.

Rhyme and reason are vitally important to me. And the rhythm in the rhymes is too. It’s no small thing because we humans are complex designs with rhythm in our hearts. Our systems function like clockwork. Better than clockwork because they function without us even having to think about them. Except when outside forces and age and lifestyle choices affect us. But that’s another story.

As you can see, not enough sleep can get you pondering perplexities. So, I’ll just leave you with these last thoughts (and the lyrics to the song)…

Drifting Sands

Daytime flew by…
Time for shut-eye…
Night winds whisper…
Air gets crisper.
What will make you
Sleep and take you
Through this long night…
Into daylight?

Drifting sands…desert dreamtime calls.
Drifting sands…sound like waterfalls.
Leave your cares in the angels’ hands,
And drift to sleep on the drifting sands.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/drifting-sands/feed/0Drifting sands are rhythm in my hands This morning, like too many mornings this year, I woke up before getting … Read the rest...
This morning, like too many mornings this year, I woke up before getting enough sleep. And I’m dealing with some issues that restful, recuperative sleep would help. So, of course, I decided to wallow in my misery and make a list of all the things people better watch out for around me today. Not! No, I started thinking about some of the lullabies for kids I’ve written. And I wondered if any of them would help ME sleep. Then, Drifting Sands popped into my head.
As you listen to or read the lyrics, notice the rhythm. Every sentence in each verse has four syllables. And the chorus has a calming one-two-three, one-two-three-four-five beat. So each of those lines equals two lines of the verses. Until you get to the last line in the chorus. Then, with the word “And” that line becomes the only one with an odd number of syllables.
Rhyme and reason are vitally important to me. And the rhythm in the rhymes is too. It’s no small thing because we humans are complex designs with rhythm in our hearts. Our systems function like clockwork. Better than clockwork because they function without us even having to think about them. Except when outside forces and age and lifestyle choices affect us. But that’s another story.
As you can see, not enough sleep can get you pondering perplexities. So, I’ll just leave you with these last thoughts (and the lyrics to the song)…
Drifting Sands
Daytime flew by…

One Day Soon

I remember, when I was about five years old, snapping green beans on the porch with my Grandmother in Oklahoma. She would almost always find a way to talk to me about God, Jesus, and time. On this particular day she was making sure I understood how short this life is. She told me, “Don’t take your parents and grandparents for granted. One day soon you’ll wake up and find ’em gone.” Of course, as a little boy, I wondered why old people talked about those things.

My, how time flies.

If my calculations are correct, Grandmother would have been a few years younger than I am now when she told me those things. That “one day soon” she mentioned is already in my rearview mirror. Out of all my grandparents, step-grandparents, and parents, only my mom remains. Wow. Years fly by like the scenery through the side windows of a speeding car.

Your perspective, whether you think so or not, will change considerably when you can measure your life in multiple decades. Don’t be surprised if you hear yourself telling somebody younger, “Just wait, one day soon you’ll see what I’m talking about.” And that’s why it’s important, like Grandmother said, to not take people or circumstances for granted.

One day soon your circumstances will change.

It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor. Black or white or red or yellow. Man or woman. Old or young. Your circumstances are going to change. And very often for the worse.

I’m not a pessimist. This isn’t about helplessly wringing hands or throwing in the towel. Far from it. I’m talking about reality. Your bank account will never be large enough to protect you from hard times. You won’t be immune from troubles just because you were born a certain color or sex. And young people suffer hardships just as often as the elderly.

That’s all reality. But the good news is…there’s always good news. You’re not an evolving train wreck. And you’re not floating helplessly through space on a meaningless ball of dirt. You were designed. On purpose. And one day soon you’re gonna meet that Designer. And it will be glorious beyond your hopes, dreams, or expectations. Unless…

…you choose not to.

It’s like this. You make choices in this life.

What to wear. Where to work. How to act around other people. When to eat, drink, and sleep. Every day…lots of choices. But none of them are permanent. Only one choice you make in your life has permanent consequences. That choice is whether to believe there’s one, true, living, loving Creator who made you and loves you. Or. To believe everything that happens is just leading to an eventual black hole of nothingness.

One day soon you’ll either find out you were right or you were wrong. If you’re young, it might be decades from now. But trust me, that won’t matter. It’ll still feel so much sooner than you ever imagined. You’re either gonna face a life-threatening illness, or accident, or crime. But whatever it is…you’re gonna face your own end days.

I urge you not to go it alone. And I urge you not to trust your life to your health, your wealth, your friends or family or government. Nothing and no one, here on Earth, can give you the security of eternal life. You can only find that in one person. Jesus. And my hope for you is that one day soon, when you meet Him, it’s with open arms.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/one-day-soon/feed/0One Day Soon I remember, when I was about five years old, snapping green beans on the porch with my … Read the rest...
I remember, when I was about five years old, snapping green beans on the porch with my Grandmother in Oklahoma. She would almost always find a way to talk to me about God, Jesus, and time. On this particular day she was making sure I understood how short this life is. She told me, “Don’t take your parents and grandparents for granted. One day soon you’ll wake up and find ’em gone.” Of course, as a little boy, I wondered why old people talked about those things.
My, how time flies.
If my calculations are correct, Grandmother would have been a few years younger than I am now when she told me those things. That “one day soon” she mentioned is already in my rearview mirror. Out of all my grandparents, step-grandparents, and parents, only my mom remains. Wow. Years fly by like the scenery through the side windows of a speeding car.
Your perspective, whether you think so or not, will change considerably when you can measure your life in multiple decades. Don’t be surprised if you hear yourself telling somebody younger, “Just wait, one day soon you’ll see what I’m talking about.” And that’s why it’s important, like Grandmother said, to not take people or circumstances for granted.
One day soon your circumstances will change.
It doesn’t matter if you’re rich or poor. Black or white or red or yellow. Man or woman. Old or young. Your circumstances are going to change. And very often for the worse.
I’m not a pessimist. This isn’t about helplessly wringing hands or throwing in the towel. Far from it. I’m talking about reality. Your bank account will never be large enough to protect you from hard times. You won’t be immune from troubles just because you were born a certain color or sex. And young people suffer hardships just as often as the elderly.
That’s all reality. But the good news is…there’s always good news. You’re not an evolving train wreck. And you’re not floating helplessly through space on a meaningless ball of dirt. You were designed. On purpose. And one day soon you’re gonna meet that Designer. And it will be glorious beyond your hopes, dreams, or expectations. Unless…
…you choose not to.
It’s like this. You make choices in this life.
What to wear. Where to work. How to act around other people. When to eat, drink, and sleep. Every day…lots of choices. But none of them are permanent. Only one choice you make in your life has permanent consequences. That choice is whether to believe there’s one, true, living, loving Creator who made you and loves you. Or. To believe everything that happens is just leading to an eventual black hole of nothingness.
One day soon you’ll either find out you were right or you were wrong. If you’re young, it might be decades from now. But trust me, that won’t matter. It’ll still feel so much sooner than you ever imagined. You’re either gonna face a life-threatening illness, or accident, or crime. But whatever it is…you’re gonna face your own end days.
I urge you not to go it alone. And I urge you not to trust your life to your health, your wealth, your friends or family or government. Nothing and no one, here on Earth, can give you the security of eternal life. You can only find that in one person. Jesus. And my hope for you is that one day soon, when you meet Him, it’s with open arms.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
]]>Tony Funderburkclean10:35
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Things to do – are they helping you?https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/things-to-do/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/things-to-do/#respondTue, 18 Sep 2018 12:32:47 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18471Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

I’ve Got Things To Do I wouldn’t mind stopping all of the wars. I’d be a diplomat, If I could …Read the rest...

I’ve Got Things To Do

I wouldn’t mind stopping all of the wars.
I’d be a diplomat,
If I could know for sure in my heart
That it was simple as that.
But peace will have to wait.
I can’t just change my life around.
I’m in the middle of something
That has me helplessly bound.
I’ve got things to do.
And I’ve got places to go.
I’ve got people to see
And savings to grow
And though I don’t know how to see this through
I know for sure I’ve got things to do.

I wouldn’t mind spreading love in the world.
I’d work it every day.
I know that someone’s life can be changed.
When you give love away,
But love will have to wait;
We’re gonna have to hold that thought.
I’m on a merciless mission…and though it hurts a lot

I’ve got things to do.
And I’ve got places to go.
I’ve got people to see
And futures to grow
And though I don’t know how to see this through
I know for sure I’ve got things to do.

I’m sure someone will come along
Who could easily fit the bill
And when they do, I’ll lend my support,
If I can ever get over this hill.

I’ve got things to do.
And I’ve got places to go.
I’ve got people to see
And dreams to grow
And though I don’t know how to see this through
I know for sure I’ve got things to do.

If you get the sense that those lyrics above describe you, it might be time to sit down and prioritize your to-do list. And even more important than knowing what to do, and when, is knowing Who gave you the ability to do.

Your to-do list should have an eternal perspective.

It would be a crying shame if you accomplished everything important on every to-do list you ever made…only to find out it was all for nothing when you died. That can happen if you put YOU at the top of your priorities.

So…what’s on your to-do list now?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/things-to-do/feed/0I’ve Got Things To Do I wouldn’t mind stopping all of the wars. I’d be a diplomat, If I could … Read the rest...
I wouldn’t mind stopping all of the wars.

I’d be a diplomat,

If I could know for sure in my heart

That it was simple as that.

But peace will have to wait.

I can’t just change my life around.

I’m in the middle of something

That has me helplessly bound.

I’ve got things to do.

And I’ve got places to go.

I’ve got people to see

And savings to grow

And though I don’t know how to see this through

I know for sure I’ve got things to do.
I wouldn’t mind spreading love in the world.

I’d work it every day.

I know that someone’s life can be changed.

When you give love away,

But love will have to wait;

We’re gonna have to hold that thought.

I’m on a merciless mission…and though it hurts a lot
I’ve got things to do.

And I’ve got places to go.

I’ve got people to see

And futures to grow

And though I don’t know how to see this through

I know for sure I’ve got things to do.
I’m sure someone will come along

Thinking about thinking

Now, there’s a thought for you. Thinking about thinking. That’s what I’ve been doing for the past few minutes because of what I read in a book called “In The Beginning” by Dr. Walt Brown. It’s THE best science book you’ve probably never read. And most so-called “scientists” would never dare to read. Why? Because it presents science with a bias toward truth and where evidence actually leads. Not simply a regurgitation of debunked evolutionary theories. And this morning I read a section, in the book, talking about the “validity of thought”. And as they say these days…mind blown.

Thinking about thinking while theories are sinking

Consider what Dr. Brown said about thoughts, “If life is the result of natural processes or chance, then so is thought. Your thoughts—including what you are thinking now—would ultimately be a consequence of a long series of irrational causes. Therefore, your thoughts would have no validity, including the thought that life is a result of chance or natural processes.”

So what do you think about your thoughts now? Well, I encourage you to read the whole section in Dr. Brown’s book. You’ll see it’s not a mere expressed opinion of his. In fact, it’s so incredibly well thought out and illustrated, I can’t imagine anyone thinking the same way about evolution after reading it.

But I’m sure the masses, devoted to hating God and finding any excuse to shove Him out of their lives, will completely dismiss the evidence. As always.

Why is this important to think about?

While it might seem like it’s just another excuse to use my rhyming style (and it IS), it’s more than that, of course. Thinking about thinking takes you closer to your Creator, if you allow it. Your rational thoughts could never in a million years (or billion or trillion or any other illion) come from irrational processes.

But your rational thoughts COULD come from a rational designer. Especially if that designer created you to have a loving and eternal relationship with Him. And He did.

If you’re reading or listening to this, and you still haven’t considered the evidence for the one true, living, loving God in the Bible, consider it today. Hit the links. Read the information. See if it gets you thinking about thinking.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/thinking-about-thinking/feed/0Thinking about thinking Now, there’s a thought for you. Thinking about thinking. That’s what I’ve been doing for the past … Read the rest...
Now, there’s a thought for you. Thinking about thinking. That’s what I’ve been doing for the past few minutes because of what I read in a book called “In The Beginning” by Dr. Walt Brown. It’s THE best science book you’ve probably never read. And most so-called “scientists” would never dare to read. Why? Because it presents science with a bias toward truth and where evidence actually leads. Not simply a regurgitation of debunked evolutionary theories. And this morning I read a section, in the book, talking about the “validity of thought”. And as they say these days…mind blown.
Thinking about thinking while theories are sinking
Consider what Dr. Brown said about thoughts, “If life is the result of natural processes or chance, then so is thought. Your thoughts—including what you are thinking now—would ultimately be a consequence of a long series of irrational causes. Therefore, your thoughts would have no validity, including the thought that life is a result of chance or natural processes.”
So what do you think about your thoughts now? Well, I encourage you to read the whole section in Dr. Brown’s book. You’ll see it’s not a mere expressed opinion of his. In fact, it’s so incredibly well thought out and illustrated, I can’t imagine anyone thinking the same way about evolution after reading it.
But I’m sure the masses, devoted to hating God and finding any excuse to shove Him out of their lives, will completely dismiss the evidence. As always.
Why is this important to think about?
While it might seem like it’s just another excuse to use my rhyming style (and it IS), it’s more than that, of course. Thinking about thinking takes you closer to your Creator, if you allow it. Your rational thoughts could never in a million years (or billion or trillion or any other illion) come from irrational processes.
But your rational thoughts COULD come from a rational designer. Especially if that designer created you to have a loving and eternal relationship with Him. And He did.
If you’re reading or listening to this, and you still haven’t considered the evidence for the one true, living, loving God in the Bible, consider it today. Hit the links. Read the information. See if it gets you thinking about thinking.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean9:07
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Your life means more than some give it credit forhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/your-life-means-more/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/your-life-means-more/#respondFri, 14 Sep 2018 11:30:36 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18479Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Your Life Means More I read a short article, this morning, from a fellow musician who wants to motivate others. …Read the rest...

Your Life Means More

I read a short article, this morning, from a fellow musician who wants to motivate others. One of the main lines in the article said, “You matter. You matter. You matter.” I wonder if she even understands why she wrote it three times? But that’s something else I’ll talk about some other time. The point is…she’s right. You DO matter. Your life means more than anything else you have, or had, or ever will have. Because it came from God.

You’ve probably read or heard reports talking about the higher and higher rates of suicide among teenagers. And the frequent stories about how many military veterans kill themselves are gut-wrenching to say the least. By the way, if you or someone you care about, are contemplating taking your own life, I urge you to read “Teardrops That Tango“. It’s written by a woman who’s dealt with four family suicides and witnessed a violent suicide. It can help.

But contrast all those suicides against stories like Jeremiah Thomas. He was a 16 year old young man who just lost a valiant fight with cancer. And he fought for every day of life he could muster…even though the odds were against him. What’s the difference between Jeremiah and all those other people who decide to end their own lives. I believe it’s that he understood…

Your life means more than that because it’s not your own.

You and I wouldn’t even be here if a living, loving Creator didn’t exist. Evolution says dirt created itself and that everything has been getting more and more complex ever since. Well, evolution is partly right. (gasp!) We ARE made of dirt. But the secret ingredient for our existence isn’t billions of years. It’s the breath of life from God.

We all became “a living being” because God is creative, loving, and wants to have a relationship with us. He is able to make us live. Forever. And because you’re alive, you owe a debt of gratitude to Him.

But too many people thumb their noses at God and take life into their own hands. Suicide. Murder. Abortion.

Suicide is presented as a viable “way out” in movies, TV, and other media. Murder is like a giant video game, played out daily, on the streets. And ending the life of a little baby in the womb is called “your right”.

You and I don’t have the “right” to take the life of an innocent person. Whether that’s our neighbors, our babies, or even ourselves. There’s no excuse good enough to justify it. And there’s no reason strong enough to commit it. Not pain. Or guilt. Not financial burdens. Or even life-threatening diseases.

Your life means more than what’s on your plate today.

I’m always talking about life, here on my website, on my podcast, and my other social media channels because I want you to see the big picture. You’re an eternal being. You were made in the image and likeness of God. And if that’s not true, then ultimately no one needs to worry about or cry over lost lives.

But if it IS true, (hint: it is) then your life means more than any problems you’re facing right now. And every human life is more precious than any other thing on Earth.

Right To Life

When tiny seeds take root in tiny eggs,
Then you get tiny eyes, ears, arms and legs.
Then tiny babies form inside their mother’s womb,
And then the human life begins to bloom.

I was an unborn child until the day I was born.
I lived inside my mom until the cord was torn.
Then I began to grow and grew up “big and strong”
And learned to cherish life…and so I sing this song.

Everyone has a right to life.
A gift from God before it even starts.
Everyone has a right to life.
Your right is wrong when it stops innocent hearts…
Innocent hearts deserve a right to life.

(Repeat)

When you’re born, and someone lets you live,
You only take cause you’re too small to give.
But the joy a tiny baby brings
Is way beyond all those other things.

Give yourself some room to think about
What your “right” might do…who you’re leaving out.
Put yourself right there in that baby’s place.
Either way you “choose” you’ll see a baby’s face.

Everyone has a right to life.
A gift from God before it even starts.
Everyone has a right to life.
Your right is wrong when it stops innocent hearts.

Nobody knows you when you’re down and out

When my Dad was suffering from “terminal kidney failure”, back in the 80’s, I remember something he told me more than once. “When things go very bad, you’ll find out who your true friends are. And most people will be able to count, on one hand, how many friends show up for their funeral.” I was over 30 years younger then, and I thought that sounded overly morbid and sad because I had plenty of friends. However, I discovered his words to be truer than I figured. And I didn’t have to wait for my funeral. Nobody knows you when things aren’t going well. Rod Stewart even sang about it.

“But oh just as soon
As my money got low
I couldn’t find nobody
And I had no place to go
And if I ever get my hands
On a dollar again
I’m gonna hold on
Till the eagle wins” ~songwriter Jimmy Cox

There are exceptions to every rule.

And the rule of nobody knows you when you’re down and out has exceptions, too. Like Jeremiah Thomas for example. The young man who recently lost his battle with cancer. But you’ll almost always see lots of people rally around a teenager, or small child, when things like that happen. And you’ll almost always see a big funeral or memorial service for them, too.

But I’m talking about the average Joe or Jane Schmoe. The people who live typical lives, grow old, experience the tribulations of life, and suffer something that takes them down. Most of those people will discover they don’t have many true friends once things aren’t going so well.

It doesn’t even have to be a death thing. Like the song said, it can even be about money. Nobody knows you when you’re down and out. Busted. Broke. Have you ever experienced that? If so, I hope you took that experience to heart and learned a valuable lesson from it. And the way you turn it around is to rely on the Two Commandments. You know what those are, right? “You shall love the Lord with all your heart…” and…”You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Would you ignore your own needs?

Of course not. So, why would you ignore the needs of others when they’re down and out? Or discouraged? Or confused, sick, broke, or suffering from something they’re not even sharing?

It’s important for all of us to remember we’re not the king or queen. No way. No how. And it’s even more important to know and understand who IS King. King of all kings. Creator of Heaven and Earth. The one who died on a cross for you and me. The one who might have thought to Himself, as He felt even the forsaking of His Father, “nobody knows you when you’re down and out.”

Just something else to think about in your busy day.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

How to identify the more important things in life

When you were a kid, did your dad work hard and still come home and play with you? Or spend some other sort of great quality time with you? Mine did. And there was never a moment, during those times with him, where I had to wait for him to check his messages, or text somebody, or watch a silly video. For one thing, there was no such thing as a smartphone back then. But even if there had been, my Dad would have made sure we spent time together on more important things.

The more important things in life aren’t “things”.

Ask anybody who truly knows me, and they’ll say, “Yes, he is a techie guy.” In fact, as a pre-teen and teenager, my family called me “technical Tony”. They didn’t always mean it as a term of endearment, but that’s another story for another time. The point is…I enjoy technology. Seeing how the latest, greatest mobile device or laptop works enthralls and intrigues me. I think it’s all so incredibly cool.

But…I don’t place the value of my digital tools even close to the value of my relationships. That’s why I say the more important things in life aren’t things. They’re people. And your relationships with them. You need to place an extremely high value on your relationships. You know why? Because here on Earth they don’t last long.

Every thing here is temporary. Case and point…

Getting back to my Dad. He worked hard. For most of his working life he was a milkman. And this was back in the days when a milkman would deliver dairy products door-to-door. I remember going to work with him on a LOT of Saturdays. So, when I say he worked hard, I know what I’m talking about from personal experience. Getting up around 3 a.m. to be at the dairy plant in time to have his truck loaded and hitting the road by 4:30 or 5:00 a.m. Hauling a dolly into a cold storage area in his milk truck…stacked with cases of gallons, half gallons, and quarts of milk, juice, butter, and more.

Dad worked two routes each week. One was his Monday, Wednesday, Friday route. The other was Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. He delivered milk in some neighborhoods in Texas near NASA. In fact (as a side note) several of his customers were some of the first well-known astronauts.

Another side note (and true story) Dad made sure, on one of those Saturdays I was with him, I got to personally hand deliver a half gallon of ice cream to Neil Armstrong. For those of you born in this century…Neil Armstrong was the first man to set foot on the moon. And little ol’ me handed him a container of Dutch chocolate rocky road ice cream! (I think that’s what it was)

Wow…talk about an astronomical rabbit trail. Anyway. Even on those long Saturdays, when I was helping Dad deliver milk, he spent lots of time with me. Not just telling me what to do, but also having conversations about the more important things in life. Things like what I was learning in math, science, and language classes. Other things like family and where I was going someday when I die. Yeah, even that. Those one-on-one times with my Dad were priceless. And I wouldn’t trade a second of them for all the cool technology in the world.

Dad died when he was only 51.

Don’t get me wrong…there were tough times with my Dad, too. He was a strict disciplinarian. And when I failed to do the right thing once in a while, sometimes there were serious consequences. But those times never overshadowed the times Dad spent with me showing me how to use tools and work on lawnmowers, bicycles, and even my first car. Or the times he spent building (yes, building) go-karts for my brother and I to test drive and blast around the block on.

Dad even showed us how to fly kites using our saltwater fishing rods and reels. He’d throw the football with us, in the street, during football season. He taught us the finer points of throwing a baseball with either hand. I remember even getting him to play tennis with me when I started up that sport in high school. And I remember it was the first sport where I could beat him. Guys might identify more with me on that…how it feels to first beat your dad at anything. Right?

My Dad was only 20 years older than me. That means he’s now been gone longer than he was around during my life. And I still think of him and so many of those special moments almost daily.

I’m not sure if he knows, right now, how important a role he played in my life. But I AM sure he knows, without a doubt, what the more important things in life are. He was (and is) a Christian. So, I know my Dad is “present with the Lord” right now. And Dad has experienced, firsthand for over 32 years, the ultimate relationship. It’s an awesome and incredible HOPE I have…to know I’ll see him again someday. And to know we’ll be eternal brothers in the presence of the one, true, living, loving Creator.

Interrupt temporary with eternal.

As you go through your day today…as you check your texts, instant messages, social media accounts, YouTube and Instagram videos, and even your eCommerce stats…take a pause. Look up. Look around. Pay attention to the ones you love. Talk to them. Embrace. Laugh. Enjoy the time. They won’t be here forever. You won’t either. Be you’ll all be somewhere forever. Talk about that. And be sure where you’re going. It matters more than any other message you’ll receive from any other source.

Are you good to go?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

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Open your mind to a train of thought

Have you ever been called close-minded? If you’re a Christian who rightly divides the word of truth, I wouldn’t be surprised, at all, if you have. I can’t tell you how many times an unbeliever has said something like, “You need to open your mind to all the scientific evidence out there instead of your Bible stories.” And that’s ironic, to say the least, because I’ve shared tons of scientific evidence for creation (as opposed to evolution) right here on my website. It’s in living color for all the world to see. I’m not close-minded. Narrow-minded, yes. But I’m consistently jumping on a free-thinking train of thought.

Open your mind to truth that will set you free.

I think the truly close-minded people are the ones who dogmatically stick to the atheistic, evolutionary worldview while insisting Christians are dogmatic. (side note: dogmatic sounds like a canine car to me, but I digress) One dictionary defines dogma like this: “a principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true: the Christian dogma of the Trinity” – Under that description, I have no problem being dogmatic about the Trinity. After all, it’s “laid down” by THE authority. God.

If the Bible isn’t true, then anything you care to believe…anything you choose to do is right. You can live any way you want, do anything you want, say anything you want, and it’s true. As long as it’s true for YOU. But if you believe the Bible isn’t true…and it IS…one day you’re gonna be in another world of hurt. Eternal hurt.

I’d like you to open your mind to a couple of thoughts today. Truly open your mind. Don’t read or listen to what I say with scorn or your mouth ready to blast me for even sharing these thoughts. Just let them enter your mind and simmer and marinate for a day or two. Are you willing to be that open-minded? Good. Here they are.

There IS a God. You’re not Him. And He loves you.

Ok, that’s three, but “a couple of thoughts” was a figure of speech anyway. The point is…if those three things aren’t true, or you don’t believe them, then do, live, and be anything and any way you determine is right for you. Live it up. Eat, drink, and be merry. Because you might die tomorrow…or even today. And you wouldn’t want to go to that infinite black hole without having done everything your little heart desired. Would you?

But keep it mind (you did open your mind didn’t you?) the possibility I’m telling you the actual truth. The Truth can either set you free or send you where you chose to go. To an eternal separation from your Creator…where you’ll exist forever with nothing more than your own train of thought.

Is it really worth the risk?

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, business owners, and…well, everybody. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

There is no greater love than this….

…that a man be willing to lay down his life for his friends. Do you have a love like that living in your heart? It doesn’t mean that you have to be killed in order to prove you love your friends. It means you’d be willing to do that if things ever got to that point. I pray you never have to face a circumstance like that. But I also pray you’d be able to if and when the time comes. And I pray that for me, too. Because that kind of greater love comes from above.

Imagine if you never committed a crime. Never even sinned. Then imagine being scorned, ridiculed, mocked, and even beaten half to death by people you were trying to help. What would you do? How would you feel? Could you stand having everyone hate you for just being you? And what if they wanted to kill you? Would you be able to forgive them?

It takes a greater love than I have.

I can only imagine what Jesus must have felt in the last days of His life. He became the only person ever to be found innocent of his charges and then sentenced to death. And keep in mind…He didn’t do what He did because He had no other choice. When they came to seize Him and take him to face his charges, He let them know they couldn’t possibly do this without His willingness. He told them He could merely pray and legions of angels would come to His aid. I think I would have prayed that prayer. Wouldn’t you?

But He didn’t do that because He had chosen to become a man in order to be able to give His life for His friends. His eternal life. For eons and eons past He had always been undying Spirit. And yet, His love for and toward us was and is so great, He became a flesh and blood man. Then, He became sin for us. And then, He actually endured a tortuous death so we wouldn’t have to. You won’t find greater love than that anywhere or anytime.

I don’t know about you, but knowing what Jesus went through makes me want to get to know how anyone could love me that much. If God, who created all the heavens and earth and lowered Himself to our level in order to give us eternal life, is FOR us, then…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/greater-love/feed/0There is no greater love than this…. …that a man be willing to lay down his life for his friends. Do … Read the rest...
…that a man be willing to lay down his life for his friends. Do you have a love like that living in your heart? It doesn’t mean that you have to be killed in order to prove you love your friends. It means you’d be willing to do that if things ever got to that point. I pray you never have to face a circumstance like that. But I also pray you’d be able to if and when the time comes. And I pray that for me, too. Because that kind of greater love comes from above.
Imagine if you never committed a crime. Never even sinned. Then imagine being scorned, ridiculed, mocked, and even beaten half to death by people you were trying to help. What would you do? How would you feel? Could you stand having everyone hate you for just being you? And what if they wanted to kill you? Would you be able to forgive them?
It takes a greater love than I have.
I can only imagine what Jesus must have felt in the last days of His life. He became the only person ever to be found innocent of his charges and then sentenced to death. And keep in mind…He didn’t do what He did because He had no other choice. When they came to seize Him and take him to face his charges, He let them know they couldn’t possibly do this without His willingness. He told them He could merely pray and legions of angels would come to His aid. I think I would have prayed that prayer. Wouldn’t you?
But He didn’t do that because He had chosen to become a man in order to be able to give His life for His friends. His eternal life. For eons and eons past He had always been undying Spirit. And yet, His love for and toward us was and is so great, He became a flesh and blood man. Then, He became sin for us. And then, He actually endured a tortuous death so we wouldn’t have to. You won’t find greater love than that anywhere or anytime.
I don’t know about you, but knowing what Jesus went through makes me want to get to know how anyone could love me that much. If God, who created all the heavens and earth and lowered Himself to our level in order to give us eternal life, is FOR us, then…
…It doesn’t matter who’s against us.
They’re inconsequential in comparison.
God says that tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, peril, and sword will not separate us from Him. And the Apostle Paul was convinced that “…neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Do you agree with me now, when I say there’s no greater love than this? Yes or no…let me know
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and well…everybody. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean11:32
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End of the road where you lay down your loadhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/end-of-the-road/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/end-of-the-road/#respondSun, 02 Sep 2018 02:44:04 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18405Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

A great young man found the end of the road this week Imagine you’re sixteen. You’re just beginning to look …Read the rest...

A great young man found the end of the road this week

Imagine you’re sixteen. You’re just beginning to look like the adult you’re becoming. You have your whole life ahead of you. Now, imagine you’ve just been told that your whole life might be only another year. Maybe less. Lots of young people would immediately use it as an excuse to wallow in self-pity. But Jeremiah Thomas kept smiling. He knew there’s a God. A Savior. For anyone who chooses to trust and believe. And when Jeremiah reached the end of the road this week…in his battle with cancer…he went to be face to face with his Savior.

There’s a way to avoid the “fearful” part. Believe. And trust. Not just anyone or anything. And certainly not the universe or some other non-living entity. Trust Jesus. Don’t just do it because I say so. Test my assertions. Open the Bible and actually read and study it. Not to simply attempt to discredit it, but to honestly see what it says. Jeremiah Thomas was raised on the Truth in the Bible. So when he came to end of the road a couple of days ago, he fell into the hands of the living God. But he was received with the eternal love only Jesus can give.

Is your end of the road far off or close?

Most people don’t know the answer to that question. If you’re one of them, ask yourself this: “If I die today or tomorrow, what’s gonna happen to me?” And if you don’t know the answer…it’s a fearful thing.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/end-of-the-road/feed/0A great young man found the end of the road this week Imagine you’re sixteen. You’re just beginning to look … Read the rest...
Imagine you’re sixteen. You’re just beginning to look like the adult you’re becoming. You have your whole life ahead of you. Now, imagine you’ve just been told that your whole life might be only another year. Maybe less. Lots of young people would immediately use it as an excuse to wallow in self-pity. But Jeremiah Thomas kept smiling. He knew there’s a God. A Savior. For anyone who chooses to trust and believe. And when Jeremiah reached the end of the road this week…in his battle with cancer…he went to be face to face with his Savior.

So, is death a scary thing for you?
The Bible says “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” And no matter who you are…man, woman…young, old…rich, poor…Christian, atheist…you will “fall into the hands of the living God” when you die. Am I making it sound scary, yet?
There’s a way to avoid the “fearful” part. Believe. And trust. Not just anyone or anything. And certainly not the universe or some other non-living entity. Trust Jesus. Don’t just do it because I say so. Test my assertions. Open the Bible and actually read and study it. Not to simply attempt to discredit it, but to honestly see what it says. Jeremiah Thomas was raised on the Truth in the Bible. So when he came to end of the road a couple of days ago, he fell into the hands of the living God. But he was received with the eternal love only Jesus can give.
Is your end of the road far off or close?
Most people don’t know the answer to that question. If you’re one of them, ask yourself this: “If I die today or tomorrow, what’s gonna happen to me?” And if you don’t know the answer…it’s a fearful thing.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean9:41
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Living technology should make you say golly geehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/living-technology/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/living-technology/#respondSat, 01 Sep 2018 11:26:15 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18403Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Living technology – Yeah, it’s a real thing! For the past week or two, each morning when I’m waking up …Read the rest...

Living technology – Yeah, it’s a real thing!

For the past week or two, each morning when I’m waking up with my first cups of coffee, I’ve been watching hummingbirds outside the front windows. They’re one of the smallest, yet one of the most amazing, birds around. It’s so cool how they can fly so fast and yet seem to stop on a dime in midair and hover above a blossom. I call it “cool”. But it’s also known as living technology. Whatever it’s called, it’s a blast to watch those tiny birds darting through the air. How dey do dat?

So, what’s the big deal about living technology?

Thanks for asking. It’s a big deal because it’s all around you. It’s even IN you. And the world’s best designers, research and development teams, and scientists can’t copy it. They spend tons of time and money studying living technology, and the best they can do is come up with clunkier versions of it which need consistent upgrades.

Just imagine, for a minute, millions of microscopic motors inside your cells. Guess what? You don’t have to imagine them because they’re very real, and they’re IN you right now. In every cell. And you’ve probably heard about sonar systems in dolphins and whales, right? Or how about FM radar in bats? And, of course, I gotta add the amazing aerodynamic abilities of those beautiful hovering hummingbirds.

Those highly advanced technologies (and more) have been around for thousands of years before your favorite smartphone. One more I’d like to add is your body’s ability to repair itself. Where do you think you would be if your body couldn’t do that? Hmm…dead comes to mind.

You know what’s really a big deal?

So many people, most in fact, can look at or read about living technology and still say it all happened accidentally. Yeah, right. Hummingbirds just got lucky in the evolutionary process and developed abilities to stop in midair in a split second. Sure, that makes sense. Not. C’mon, how many hummingbirds had to crash and burn as their little systems “evolved” a better way to fly? And how would crashing and burning benefit the little guys? Short answer…it wouldn’t.

For a more logical answer, you should understand life just like you understand your smartphone. You should know, without even having to think about it, how it didn’t happen by accident. Nothing complicated happens accidentally. Chance only creates chaos. Designers create designs. You and I are designs. God is the designer. Any questions?

Moving Like A Hummingbird

Smell the freshness of the morning air.
Hear the morning bird’s sweet song.
Just forget the things you’ve got to do.
Throw them all aside and come along.

Love is moving like a hummingbird…
Never landing in one place.
If you’re quick enough, hold on.
I know you’ll find a place.

Learn all about the strength of gentleness.
You’ve always held the power in your heart.
Don’t let the negatives deter you now.
To let go now would tear your life apart.

Love is moving like a hummingbird.
Drink of the nectar it provides.
If you desire, it will stay awhile.
Try now to softly close your eyes…I know…
You’ll find the secret place it hides.

Love is moving like a hummingbird.
Let me ride upon its back.
Take me to the place of happiness.
I’ll go, and maybe I’ll never come back.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/living-technology/feed/0Living technology – Yeah, it’s a real thing! For the past week or two, each morning when I’m waking up … Read the rest...
For the past week or two, each morning when I’m waking up with my first cups of coffee, I’ve been watching hummingbirds outside the front windows. They’re one of the smallest, yet one of the most amazing, birds around. It’s so cool how they can fly so fast and yet seem to stop on a dime in midair and hover above a blossom. I call it “cool”. But it’s also known as living technology. Whatever it’s called, it’s a blast to watch those tiny birds darting through the air. How dey do dat?
So, what’s the big deal about living technology?
Thanks for asking. It’s a big deal because it’s all around you. It’s even IN you. And the world’s best designers, research and development teams, and scientists can’t copy it. They spend tons of time and money studying living technology, and the best they can do is come up with clunkier versions of it which need consistent upgrades.
Just imagine, for a minute, millions of microscopic motors inside your cells. Guess what? You don’t have to imagine them because they’re very real, and they’re IN you right now. In every cell. And you’ve probably heard about sonar systems in dolphins and whales, right? Or how about FM radar in bats? And, of course, I gotta add the amazing aerodynamic abilities of those beautiful hovering hummingbirds.
Those highly advanced technologies (and more) have been around for thousands of years before your favorite smartphone. One more I’d like to add is your body’s ability to repair itself. Where do you think you would be if your body couldn’t do that? Hmm…dead comes to mind.
You know what’s really a big deal?
So many people, most in fact, can look at or read about living technology and still say it all happened accidentally. Yeah, right. Hummingbirds just got lucky in the evolutionary process and developed abilities to stop in midair in a split second. Sure, that makes sense. Not. C’mon, how many hummingbirds had to crash and burn as their little systems “evolved” a better way to fly? And how would crashing and burning benefit the little guys? Short answer…it wouldn’t.
For a more logical answer, you should understand life just like you understand your smartphone. You should know, without even having to think about it, how it didn’t happen by accident. Nothing complicated happens accidentally. Chance only creates chaos. Designers create designs. You and I are designs. God is the designer. Any questions?
Moving Like A Hummingbird
Smell the freshness of the morning air.

Hear the morning bird’s sweet song.

Just forget the things you’ve got to do.

Throw them all aside and come along.
Love is moving like a hummingbird…

Never landing in one place.

If you’re quick enough, hold on.

I know you’ll find a place.
Learn all about the strength of gentleness.

You’ve always held the power in your heart.

Don’t let the negatives deter you now.

To let go now would tear your life apart.
Love is moving like a hummingbird.

Drink of the nectar it provides.

If you desire, it will stay awhile.

Try now to softly close your eyes…I know…

You’ll find the secret place it hides.
Love is moving like a hummingbird.

What do invisible attributes
have to do with God’s wrath?

How can you see something invisible ? I mean, after all, it’s invisible. Right? So, what in the world did the apostle Paul mean when he said God’s “invisible attributes are clearly seen“? And if we can’t see invisible things, why would God’s wrath come down on anybody who doesn’t see them? It’s all so confusing. Except…

It’s not confusing when you open your eyes to Truth.

I know millions of eyes just rolled up in millions of heads at the mention of Truth. But it’s a self-affirming statement to say truth exists. It’s even self-affirming to say absolute truth exists. (Gasp!) Think about just a couple of things for a minute and see if you agree.

DNA is complicated. True or false?

The sun emits light. True or false?

The earth contains the exact type of oxygen humans need in order to breathe. True or false?

If you’re honest, you answered “true” to all three questions. I could come up with literally thousands more. But I don’t have time nor the inclination to do so. Just know (and learn to be comfortable knowing) there are millions of things you can say are true. And just about as many you can say are absolutely true.

So what does this have to do with invisible attributes and God’s wrath?

God inspired Paul to write how “His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made.” Hmm…the things that are made? Those things include you and me. And everybody else. But the vast majority of people, on this beautiful planet God made, would rather thumb their noses at the thought of a Creator God. They’d rather say things like “We created God in our own image in order to feel more secure”. Or “You Christians created a God because you need a crutch.”

Most people would rather believe in aliens from another planet in a galaxy far, far away than the One who created the whole universe using only His words.

Imagine you created a beautiful gift for someone you love. Now imagine you give it to them, smiling…eager to see the look of appreciation on their face. And now imagine they give it back to you saying, “You didn’t make this. I don’t want it.”

Can you imagine how hurt you’d be? OK, let’s take it a couple of steps further. Now, let’s say you give your loved one all kinds of proof that you DID make the gift. You even show them the style of workmanship you always use. But the more evidence you show them, the more they don’t want it. You might eventually even get mad. Right? Well, that’s exactly what most people have done, and are doing, when it comes to God.

Rejecting God and His Truth will only get you His wrath.

God won’t force you to see his invisible attributes in the creation. But don’t become a fool by worshiping the creation instead of the Creator. He’ll let you come up with your own gods and create images for them like a man’s body with the head of a ram. But don’t do it unless you’re prepared to defend yourself when, one day, you’re face to face with God. And if you’re gonna be honest, you gotta admit at least the remotest possibility of that happening.

After all…isn’t it true that you might be wrong? Because if you’re never wrong, then you might be God. And then your claim that He doesn’t exist goes out the window. Oh, it’s all so confusing. Except…it’s not.

Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/invisible-attributes/feed/0What do invisible attributes have to do with God’s wrath? How can you see something invisible ? I mean, after … Read the rest...
have to do with God’s wrath?
How can you see something invisible ? I mean, after all, it’s invisible. Right? So, what in the world did the apostle Paul mean when he said God’s “invisible attributes are clearly seen“? And if we can’t see invisible things, why would God’s wrath come down on anybody who doesn’t see them? It’s all so confusing. Except…
It’s not confusing when you open your eyes to Truth.
I know millions of eyes just rolled up in millions of heads at the mention of Truth. But it’s a self-affirming statement to say truth exists. It’s even self-affirming to say absolute truth exists. (Gasp!) Think about just a couple of things for a minute and see if you agree.
DNA is complicated. True or false?
The sun emits light. True or false?
The earth contains the exact type of oxygen humans need in order to breathe. True or false?
If you’re honest, you answered “true” to all three questions. I could come up with literally thousands more. But I don’t have time nor the inclination to do so. Just know (and learn to be comfortable knowing) there are millions of things you can say are true. And just about as many you can say are absolutely true.
So what does this have to do with invisible attributes and God’s wrath?
God inspired Paul to write how “His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made.” Hmm…the things that are made? Those things include you and me. And everybody else. But the vast majority of people, on this beautiful planet God made, would rather thumb their noses at the thought of a Creator God. They’d rather say things like “We created God in our own image in order to feel more secure”. Or “You Christians created a God because you need a crutch.”
Most people would rather believe in aliens from another planet in a galaxy far, far away than the One who created the whole universe using only His words.
Imagine you created a beautiful gift for someone you love. Now imagine you give it to them, smiling…eager to see the look of appreciation on their face. And now imagine they give it back to you saying, “You didn’t make this. I don’t want it.”
Can you imagine how hurt you’d be? OK, let’s take it a couple of steps further. Now, let’s say you give your loved one all kinds of proof that you DID make the gift. You even show them the style of workmanship you always use. But the more evidence you show them, the more they don’t want it. You might eventually even get mad. Right? Well, that’s exactly what most people have done, and are doing, when it comes to God.
Rejecting God and His Truth will only get you His wrath.
God won’t force you to see his invisible attributes in the creation. But don’t become a fool by worshiping the creation instead of the Creator. He’ll let you come up with your own gods and create images for them like a man’s body with the head of a ram. But don’t do it unless you’re prepared to defend yourself when, one day, you’re face to face with God. And if you’re gonna be honest, you gotta admit at least the remotest possibility of that happening.
After all…isn’t it true that you might be wrong? Because if you’re never wrong, then you might be God. And then your claim that He doesn’t exist goes out the window. Oh, it’s all so confusing. Except…it’s not.
Be sure to jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason...]]>Tony Funderburkclean12:29
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The highest price ever paid to help you live life unafraidhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-highest-price/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-highest-price/#respondSun, 05 Aug 2018 12:32:13 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18361Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

What was the highest price ever paid for anything? It wasn’t that nearly billion dollar airplane or that $4.5 billion …Read the rest...

What was the highest price ever paid for anything?

It wasn’t that nearly billion dollar airplane or that $4.5 billion luxury yacht. And it wasn’t even that $15 billion building in Saudi Arabia. None of those even come close to being a tiny fraction of the highest price ever paid for anything. No, the most expensive thing ever purchased was your eternal life. And get this…it was paid for by one man. But he wasn’t the billionaire du jour. (You can listen to this on the Rhyme and Reason Podcast right here)

You’re supposed to pay your own way in this world…right?

All religions (and worldviews) require your good deeds in order to “go to a better place” when you die. Or reach a higher plane of enlightenment. All religions, that is, but one. You’ve no doubt heard, when so-and-so died, how he or she was “a good person” so naturally he or she is in a better place. Right? Well, there’s one religion that says no one is good except God. That must be the intolerant, mean religion. Right?

What if I told you that was the religion where God was willing to pay the highest price ever paid for anything? And what if I told you that price was His life? His eternal life. And He paid it for YOU and ME.

You and I don’t have that much to give.

God saw how awful we humans were and are…over and over again. So, He almost destroyed the whole planet and everyone on it with a worldwide flood. But He didn’t completely destroy it because of one man, Noah. God decided to start all over again with Noah and his family. And things have been peachy keen ever since.

Yeah, right.

About 2000 years ago, your Creator decided to take matters into His own hands. His physical hands. But He didn’t have physical hands because, from eternity past, He was always the life-giving, Holy Spirit God. However, He designed a way to get the hands, feet, and body He needed to save us from ourselves. He became a man and dwelled among us. For about 33 years. And He is now, forever, the Man, Jesus. In other words, He is now fully a man, and will be fully a man forever into the future.

Giving up what He had always known and been, in order to save you and me from ourselves, Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice and paid the highest price ever paid for anything. Are you willing to show Him how much you appreciate it?

Here are the lyrics to a song I wrote about that price. Listen to the song on this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. Or get a higher quality recording of it on the Raise The Praise CD.

Your Body Your Blood

Lord, I let You down,
So Lord I’m awfully glad
You loved me anyway…
You gave up all You had.
I fail here in the flesh…
This flesh that pulls me down,
And yet You say I’ll have
An imperishable crown.

I’m so relieved…my spirit has received
The only One who saves my sinful soul.
You died for me…and did so willingly.
Your body…Your blood has made me whole.
(repeat)

Lord, You lift me up,
And Lord You make me fly
Above this fallen world
Into Your Grace on high.
Forever in Your debt,
You paid the highest price.
I know I don’t deserve
How I get to be born twice.

You can also jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time. (including free music and a book)

And share with your friends, family, business owners, and everybody. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-highest-price/feed/0What was the highest price ever paid for anything? It wasn’t that nearly billion dollar airplane or that $4.5 billion … Read the rest...
It wasn’t that nearly billion dollar airplane or that $4.5 billion luxury yacht. And it wasn’t even that $15 billion building in Saudi Arabia. None of those even come close to being a tiny fraction of the highest price ever paid for anything. No, the most expensive thing ever purchased was your eternal life. And get this…it was paid for by one man. But he wasn’t the billionaire du jour. (You can listen to this on the Rhyme and Reason Podcast right here)
You’re supposed to pay your own way in this world…right?
All religions (and worldviews) require your good deeds in order to “go to a better place” when you die. Or reach a higher plane of enlightenment. All religions, that is, but one. You’ve no doubt heard, when so-and-so died, how he or she was “a good person” so naturally he or she is in a better place. Right? Well, there’s one religion that says no one is good except God. That must be the intolerant, mean religion. Right?
What if I told you that was the religion where God was willing to pay the highest price ever paid for anything? And what if I told you that price was His life? His eternal life. And He paid it for YOU and ME.
You and I don’t have that much to give.
God saw how awful we humans were and are…over and over again. So, He almost destroyed the whole planet and everyone on it with a worldwide flood. But He didn’t completely destroy it because of one man, Noah. God decided to start all over again with Noah and his family. And things have been peachy keen ever since.
Yeah, right.
About 2000 years ago, your Creator decided to take matters into His own hands. His physical hands. But He didn’t have physical hands because, from eternity past, He was always the life-giving, Holy Spirit God. However, He designed a way to get the hands, feet, and body He needed to save us from ourselves. He became a man and dwelled among us. For about 33 years. And He is now, forever, the Man, Jesus. In other words, He is now fully a man, and will be fully a man forever into the future.
Giving up what He had always known and been, in order to save you and me from ourselves, Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice and paid the highest price ever paid for anything. Are you willing to show Him how much you appreciate it?
Here are the lyrics to a song I wrote about that price. Listen to the song on this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. Or get a higher quality recording of it on the Raise The Praise CD.
Your Body Your Blood
Lord, I let You down,

Music makes me happy. How ’bout you?

Like the picture says, I promise this ain’t gonna be sappy. But it’s true. Music makes me happy. I don’t mean it forces me to be happy. And I don’t mean ALL music. Some music, of course, is written from a sad or troubled heart and it can take you there, too. But even hearing that kind of music and sharing the emotions it elicits ends up making me happy. How? Why? I’m glad you asked. (And if you’d like to listen to the rest of this, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

You and I were designed to be relational and emotional. Now guys, bear with me a minute. I don’t mean emotional like the fairer sex gets simply by watching a cat video. I’m talkin’ ’bout not being robotic. Having more than one feeling. Experiencing highs and lows. Happy, sad, grief, anger, and all the rest. It’s OK to feel those feelings because you were designed to be emotional. And because you can experience emotions, you can relate to other humans.

Human connection is a huge part of how music makes me happy.

I know, that no matter what I’m going through, there’s a song either “out there” or in my brain to express it. And even better than that, it’s most likely millions of others can identify with that same song. Now, that’s connection! But so what. Big deal…right?

Yeah, it IS a big deal. Because you and I are not supposed to disconnect and disappear from each other.

Whether you choose to believe in God (the real one found in the Bible) or not, you have a mandate to love others as you love yourself. Don’t believe that nonsense that says our strength is found in diversity. Baloney! Our strength is found in our common connection. And that connection, common to every single person on earth, is the inventor of music.

Even though you can’t find verses in the Bible to back me up on this, I’m confident I’m right when I say God invented music to keep us connected. And I believe music is a way to HEAR love. You can disagree with me if you’re OK with being wrong on this. But I recommend you listen to some Beethoven tonight and experience love for your fellow man welling up inside you. When you do, you’ll get a glimpse of why I say music makes me happy.

Are you the kind of person who loves music on a level like that? Wanna work on your happy face? Then, I suggest you jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

Then, share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

Here’s some happy rhythmic rhyming to make you smile.

A Lot In Store

When you’re really in the middle
And you’re feeling like a riddle,
And you start to get a little bit down…
Take your eyes off all your troubles.
Let ’em float away like bubbles.
When they pop, then I bet you can’t frown.

When you think your life is rotten…
All the good things have been gotten,
And the world’s takin’ more than it gives…
Start to laugh and start to winkin’.
You can stop that stinkin’ thinkin’.
That’s the way that a happy kid lives.

Yeah, your face might get all flappy
When you walk around so happy,
But your life is gonna mean much more.
Now go be a sparkling fountain
Or a bright light on a mountain
‘Cause your Maker’s got a lot in store.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/music-makes-me-happy/feed/0Music makes me happy. How ’bout you? Like the picture says, I promise this ain’t gonna be sappy. But it’s … Read the rest...
Like the picture says, I promise this ain’t gonna be sappy. But it’s true. Music makes me happy. I don’t mean it forces me to be happy. And I don’t mean ALL music. Some music, of course, is written from a sad or troubled heart and it can take you there, too. But even hearing that kind of music and sharing the emotions it elicits ends up making me happy. How? Why? I’m glad you asked. (And if you’d like to listen to the rest of this, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
You and I were designed to be relational and emotional. Now guys, bear with me a minute. I don’t mean emotional like the fairer sex gets simply by watching a cat video. I’m talkin’ ’bout not being robotic. Having more than one feeling. Experiencing highs and lows. Happy, sad, grief, anger, and all the rest. It’s OK to feel those feelings because you were designed to be emotional. And because you can experience emotions, you can relate to other humans.
Human connection is a huge part of how music makes me happy.
I know, that no matter what I’m going through, there’s a song either “out there” or in my brain to express it. And even better than that, it’s most likely millions of others can identify with that same song. Now, that’s connection! But so what. Big deal…right?
Yeah, it IS a big deal. Because you and I are not supposed to disconnect and disappear from each other.
Whether you choose to believe in God (the real one found in the Bible) or not, you have a mandate to love others as you love yourself. Don’t believe that nonsense that says our strength is found in diversity. Baloney! Our strength is found in our common connection. And that connection, common to every single person on earth, is the inventor of music.
Even though you can’t find verses in the Bible to back me up on this, I’m confident I’m right when I say God invented music to keep us connected. And I believe music is a way to HEAR love. You can disagree with me if you’re OK with being wrong on this. But I recommend you listen to some Beethoven tonight and experience love for your fellow man welling up inside you. When you do, you’ll get a glimpse of why I say music makes me happy.
Are you the kind of person who loves music on a level like that? Wanna work on your happy face? Then, I suggest you jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
Then, share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Here’s some happy rhythmic rhyming to make you smile.
A Lot In Store
When you’re really in the middle

And you’re feeling like a riddle,

And you start to get a little bit down…

Take your eyes off all your troubles.

Let ’em float away like bubbles.

When they pop, then I bet you can’t frown.
When you think your life is rotten…

All the good things have been gotten,

And the world’s takin’ more than it gives…

Start to laugh and start to winkin’.

You can stop that stinkin’ thinkin’.

That’s the way that a happy kid lives.
Yeah, your face might get all flappy

Drawn to You – the story behind the song

In late 1986 I wrote the lyrics to a song about a girl I hoped to meet. I called it “Drawn to You”. After working and reworking the music a few times, I finally decided to record the song in 1989. And I was in a tiny motel room near the beach in Corpus Christi, Texas. Fortunately I had my trusty Yahama 4-track recorder, and I got busy laying down tracks. (When you listen to the rest of this story on the Rhyme and Reason Podcast, you’ll be able to hear the old recording of this song)

Drawn to You was, at first, a love song for no one in particular.

I used to carry around an image of the woman I wanted to be with, for good, in my head. And it became so vivid I started to “see it” musically. So, I set up my motel room studio with my 4-track, my Yamaha keyboard, drum machine, and percussion machine, and my headphones.

It was a rainy, South Texas day, so being indoors all day was just the ticket to getting the song recorded with all the parts I wanted in it. If you ever recorded on tape, with only 4 tracks to work with, you’ll know what I mean when I say there was a lot of dubbing and ping-ponging. But, by the end of that day…just as it was getting dark…I had the song out of my head and on tape for posterity. Here are the lyrics. If you want to hear it, you’ll have to tune in to the podcast episode. (see the player above)

Drawn to You (1st version)

Maybe it’s your eyes.I don’t know.
It could be your walk.I’m not sure.
But you have a way of distracting my thoughts.
Would you be my drug? Would you be my cure.

Maybe it’s just me making it up
Maybe I’m wrong to even tell you.
But you didn’t lift a finger, and now I’m wrapped around it.
What else can I say?What more can I do?

I’m drawn to You
Like a June-bug to the light.
I’m drawn to You
Like a boxer to the fight.
I’m drawn to You
Like a sweet tooth and ice cream,
And it may all sound extreme,
But I’m drawn to You.

Maybe I’ll wake up…maybe soon
And find I made it up…Who can say?
‘Til then I’ll live it out…’til then I’ll follow through
And see if maybe you might feel the same way.

Chorus

Heaven, help me,won’t you take me to my heart’s desire?
Nothing could mean more thanhaving her to share my fire!Take me higher…draw me near.

Jumping forward from 1989 to 2000, my songwriting had taken quite a different turn. I had already written, produced, and distributed my first Christian CD called “Do Right“. And I was working on my latest project which became “Amen“. For some reason I decided to change my Drawn to You song from a love song for an imaginary girl to a love song for my real Creator.

Using most of the same or similar instrumentation I came up with the 3rd song in the collection. And I’ve enjoyed this version of it ever since. I hope you will, too. Here are the lyrics to the newer version. And again, if you want to hear it, you’ll have to tune in to the podcast episode. (see the player above)

Drawn to You (2nd version)

Maybe it’s Your grace.I don’t know.
It could be Your Word.I’m not sure.
But You have a way of refining my thoughts.
Your Will is my strength. Your Will is my cure.

Anytime it’s me making it up
Show me I’m wrong to just forget You.
You barely lift a finger, and You change my whole direction.
What else can I say?What more can I do?

I’m drawn to You
Like a June-bug to the light.
I’m drawn to You
Like a boxer to the fight.
I’m drawn to You
Like a sweet tooth and ice cream,
And it may all sound extreme,
But I’m drawn to You.

Maybe I’ll wake up…maybe soon
And find You take me home…Who can say?
‘Til then I’ll live it out…’til then I’ll follow through
And see how many more might feel the same way.

Chorus

Jesus, help me, won’t You take me to my heart’s desire?
Nothing could mean more than having You to be my fire!Take me higher…draw me near.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/drawn-to-you/feed/0Drawn to You – the story behind the song In late 1986 I wrote the lyrics to a song about … Read the rest...
In late 1986 I wrote the lyrics to a song about a girl I hoped to meet. I called it “Drawn to You”. After working and reworking the music a few times, I finally decided to record the song in 1989. And I was in a tiny motel room near the beach in Corpus Christi, Texas. Fortunately I had my trusty Yahama 4-track recorder, and I got busy laying down tracks. (When you listen to the rest of this story on the Rhyme and Reason Podcast, you’ll be able to hear the old recording of this song)
Drawn to You was, at first, a love song for no one in particular.
I used to carry around an image of the woman I wanted to be with, for good, in my head. And it became so vivid I started to “see it” musically. So, I set up my motel room studio with my 4-track, my Yamaha keyboard, drum machine, and percussion machine, and my headphones.
It was a rainy, South Texas day, so being indoors all day was just the ticket to getting the song recorded with all the parts I wanted in it. If you ever recorded on tape, with only 4 tracks to work with, you’ll know what I mean when I say there was a lot of dubbing and ping-ponging. But, by the end of that day…just as it was getting dark…I had the song out of my head and on tape for posterity. Here are the lyrics. If you want to hear it, you’ll have to tune in to the podcast episode. (see the player above)
Drawn to You (1st version)
Maybe it’s your eyes. I don’t know.

It could be your walk. I’m not sure.

But you have a way of distracting my thoughts.

Would you be my drug? Would you be my cure.
Maybe it’s just me making it up

Maybe I’m wrong to even tell you.

But you didn’t lift a finger, and now I’m wrapped around it.

What else can I say? What more can I do?
I’m drawn to You

Like a June-bug to the light.

I’m drawn to You

Like a boxer to the fight.

I’m drawn to You

Like a sweet tooth and ice cream,

And it may all sound extreme,

But I’m drawn to You.
Maybe I’ll wake up…maybe soon

And find I made it up…Who can say?

‘Til then I’ll live it out…’til then I’ll follow through

And see if maybe you might feel the same way.
Chorus
Heaven, help me, won’t you take me to my heart’s desire?

Morning Star…is that what you are?

Yeah, before you get all puffed up thinking I must be talking about you, I’ll just say I’m not. I’m sure you are a nice person. But Morning Star?! Come on. That title can only truly fit one person. And He earned that description by being the brightest light there is. By being the “firstborn from the dead.” You and I can’t lay claim to those unique credentials. Right?
(If you’d rather listen to the rest, here’s this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

You are important to the morning star.

If you believe your life doesn’t matter, or if you think you don’t make a difference to anyone, think again. Remember, you don’t have to be “all that”. You don’t need to conquer the world. At least you don’t have to go it alone. You might choose to. But you don’t HAVE to.

When you make the decision to “hitch your wagon” to the Morning Star, you are more than a conqueror from then on. That’s so much better than being some puny guardian of the galaxy. And the realization of how you transformed should give you humility. Enough to admit you are nothing without your one, true, living, loving Creator.

It’s why I wrote the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. When you read the lyrics or listen to the song, can you see yourself and your Maker in them?

You Are

I’m not amazing. I’m no king.
No, I’m not the God of anything…
Oh but You are. Jesus…You are.
I’m not a savior. I’m not pure.
No, I’m not the One who has the cure…
Oh but You are. Jesus…You are.

You are…the start and finish
You are…the Morning Star.
Your love will not diminish.
You’re the Life Everlasting.
You’re the Rock of offense.
You’re the Only Source of Truth
Who makes it all make sense.
If they ask who’s gonna mend
This broken world, I’ll commence
To saying You are. Jesus…You are.

I’m not perfection. I’m not near.
No, I’m not the One anyone should fear.
Oh, but You are. Jesus…You are.
I’m not the True Vine nor The Word.
No, I’m not the Amen that we’ve heard.
Oh, but You are. Jesus…You are.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/morning-star/feed/0Morning Star…is that what you are? Yeah, before you get all puffed up thinking I must be talking about you, … Read the rest...
Yeah, before you get all puffed up thinking I must be talking about you, I’ll just say I’m not. I’m sure you are a nice person. But Morning Star?! Come on. That title can only truly fit one person. And He earned that description by being the brightest light there is. By being the “firstborn from the dead.” You and I can’t lay claim to those unique credentials. Right?

(If you’d rather listen to the rest, here’s this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
You are important to the morning star.
If you believe your life doesn’t matter, or if you think you don’t make a difference to anyone, think again. Remember, you don’t have to be “all that”. You don’t need to conquer the world. At least you don’t have to go it alone. You might choose to. But you don’t HAVE to.
When you make the decision to “hitch your wagon” to the Morning Star, you are more than a conqueror from then on. That’s so much better than being some puny guardian of the galaxy. And the realization of how you transformed should give you humility. Enough to admit you are nothing without your one, true, living, loving Creator.
It’s why I wrote the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. When you read the lyrics or listen to the song, can you see yourself and your Maker in them?
You Are
I’m not amazing. I’m no king.

Hey Christians –
Are you admonishing one another?

And not only that, but are you doing it with a song? A little while back I wrote about how singing with grace in my heart is part of my “job description”. And I shared the Bible verse that backs me up on that. In that section of the Bible it also says we should be “teaching and admonishing one another” in those songs. Whoa! Admonish. Isn’t that a bad thing? Doesn’t it mean to be mean to someone? Well, to someone who doesn’t want to be admonished, it certainly can sound mean. But that’s not truly what it means. (If you’d prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

When we’re admonishing one another the right way, it shows love.

To admonish someone, in love, means you want to help them avoid something that can harm them or take them somewhere they shouldn’t go. Another dictionary definition says it can mean to “advise or urge earnestly”. Like when you tell a drunk friend he’s not gonna drive home. You admonish him or her to hand over the keys. And if you truly love your friend, you admonish him or her to never get drunk again.

Have you ever admonished someone? Or have you ever been admonished? I’ve been on both sides of it. And it was actually good from both perspectives. It’s an opportunity to grow. And isn’t every looking for and opportunity to grow and expand these days?

Christians should have no problem admonishing one another.

And the more like Jesus we are, the less admonishing needs to be done. It’s a pretty simple formula. Be like the One who made you. Love Him, and you’re probably gonna love your neighbor. And loving your neighbor means some things are not OK.

That’s all I’m gonna say about it right now because I like to keep simple things simple. I hope you’ll take it in the spirit it’s given and get out there and start admonishing one another. Only when needed. Sound good?

By the way, while you’re here, jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners…anyone you care about. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/admonishing-one-another/feed/0Hey Christians – Are you admonishing one another? And not only that, but are you doing it with a song? … Read the rest...
Are you admonishing one another?
And not only that, but are you doing it with a song? A little while back I wrote about how singing with grace in my heart is part of my “job description”. And I shared the Bible verse that backs me up on that. In that section of the Bible it also says we should be “teaching and admonishing one another” in those songs. Whoa! Admonish. Isn’t that a bad thing? Doesn’t it mean to be mean to someone? Well, to someone who doesn’t want to be admonished, it certainly can sound mean. But that’s not truly what it means. (If you’d prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
When we’re admonishing one another the right way, it shows love.
To admonish someone, in love, means you want to help them avoid something that can harm them or take them somewhere they shouldn’t go. Another dictionary definition says it can mean to “advise or urge earnestly”. Like when you tell a drunk friend he’s not gonna drive home. You admonish him or her to hand over the keys. And if you truly love your friend, you admonish him or her to never get drunk again.
Have you ever admonished someone? Or have you ever been admonished? I’ve been on both sides of it. And it was actually good from both perspectives. It’s an opportunity to grow. And isn’t every looking for and opportunity to grow and expand these days?
Christians should have no problem admonishing one another.
And the more like Jesus we are, the less admonishing needs to be done. It’s a pretty simple formula. Be like the One who made you. Love Him, and you’re probably gonna love your neighbor. And loving your neighbor means some things are not OK.
That’s all I’m gonna say about it right now because I like to keep simple things simple. I hope you’ll take it in the spirit it’s given and get out there and start admonishing one another. Only when needed. Sound good?
By the way, while you’re here, jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners…anyone you care about. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean10:23
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Think No Evil – it’s good for soul retrievalhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/think-no-evil/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/think-no-evil/#respondMon, 16 Jul 2018 01:39:48 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18234Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Can you think no evil? Have you ever tried to think about nothing? You can’t do it. Go ahead and …Read the rest...

Can you think no evil?

Have you ever tried to think about nothing? You can’t do it. Go ahead and try. I’ll wait. See? You just can’t do it. But how about this…can you think no evil? Hmm…that might be do-able. But you sure wouldn’t think it was possible if you only got your news and information from social media. Every day I see F-bombs and nasty, mean comments being tossed around on just about every social media platform there is. Even by otherwise seemingly decent people. (If you’d rather listen than read the rest, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

To think no evil might actually take some effort for a lot of people.

Here’s part of my point today. If you can’t take someone to task, for their expressed opinion, without dropping some form of the “F word”, you’re a loser. Yeah, that’s right I said it. Loser! You’ve either lost the knowledge of vocabulary you acquired in school (or never had that knowledge in the first place)…or you’ve lost your ability to think intelligent thoughts without letting profanity dilute and pollute your point.

Every single day I hear or skim over F-bombs and other foul language from people online and in the real world. Every. Single. Day. It’s beyond stupid. If you think your point needs one or more forms of the “F word”, then your point is weak. Or at least your ability to make a point is. Either way, like I said…loser.

Get a dictionary. Read it. Or look up words you don’t know and find out what they mean. You can even look up synonyms for words you’re already using and see if maybe you can expand your horizons in the world of words. It’s an awesome world. And the more words you can use, the more you’ll be able to think no evil.

Why is it important to think no evil?

After saying all I’ve said so far, the most important reason for thinking no evil is…it’s one of the ways love is clearly seen in you. True love and evil can’t exist in your mind at the same time. They’re mutually exclusive. That’s why God used Paul to show the most important characteristics of love. If you’ve never read 1 Corinthians, even if you’re not a Christian, you should read it. You’ll discover the awesomeness of love. The power of love. And how God values love above all other qualities.

Why would anyone prefer to think and do evil or use vile language rather than love? Because they hate God and prefer to be their own god. And like the words to the song say, “where that leads, you will always long for water.”

You can also jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.

Here are the words to the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast:

Do Right

There’s a blue streak like a paintbrush stroke through my heart
It’s a cool light and it tears the darkness apart
I’m so near it; though it pierces me I don’t fear it
Like a needle; the Word sews into my spirit

There’s a rumble; like a three-day hunger or thirst
Deep inside me, and I think that maybe I’ll burst
Like a freight train on a one-way track through the canyon
Payin’ no mind to the walls of worldly opinion

Do right…and risk the consequences
And do right…whatever you do
Do right…and don’t you stand on fences
Now whatever you do with all of your might…Do Right!

There are choices that we’re given freedom to choose
But use wisdom; with your choices you could abuse
Simple words could lead little lambs to slaughter
And where that ends; you will always long for water

Chorus

I’m not willing to just let it slide
No, I just want you to get the point
And if it boils up inside you and you feel that you’re all out of joint,
And you might….
You’d better….you’d better do right

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/think-no-evil/feed/0Can you think no evil? Have you ever tried to think about nothing? You can’t do it. Go ahead and … Read the rest...
Have you ever tried to think about nothing? You can’t do it. Go ahead and try. I’ll wait. See? You just can’t do it. But how about this…can you think no evil? Hmm…that might be do-able. But you sure wouldn’t think it was possible if you only got your news and information from social media. Every day I see F-bombs and nasty, mean comments being tossed around on just about every social media platform there is. Even by otherwise seemingly decent people. (If you’d rather listen than read the rest, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
To think no evil might actually take some effort for a lot of people.
Here’s part of my point today. If you can’t take someone to task, for their expressed opinion, without dropping some form of the “F word”, you’re a loser. Yeah, that’s right I said it. Loser! You’ve either lost the knowledge of vocabulary you acquired in school (or never had that knowledge in the first place)…or you’ve lost your ability to think intelligent thoughts without letting profanity dilute and pollute your point.
Every single day I hear or skim over F-bombs and other foul language from people online and in the real world. Every. Single. Day. It’s beyond stupid. If you think your point needs one or more forms of the “F word”, then your point is weak. Or at least your ability to make a point is. Either way, like I said…loser.
Get a dictionary. Read it. Or look up words you don’t know and find out what they mean. You can even look up synonyms for words you’re already using and see if maybe you can expand your horizons in the world of words. It’s an awesome world. And the more words you can use, the more you’ll be able to think no evil.
Why is it important to think no evil?
After saying all I’ve said so far, the most important reason for thinking no evil is…it’s one of the ways love is clearly seen in you. True love and evil can’t exist in your mind at the same time. They’re mutually exclusive. That’s why God used Paul to show the most important characteristics of love. If you’ve never read 1 Corinthians, even if you’re not a Christian, you should read it. You’ll discover the awesomeness of love. The power of love. And how God values love above all other qualities.
Why would anyone prefer to think and do evil or use vile language rather than love? Because they hate God and prefer to be their own god. And like the words to the song say, “where that leads, you will always long for water.”
You can also jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners. Don’t keep this good stuff all to yourself.
Here are the words to the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast:
Do Right
There’s a blue streak like a paintbrush stroke through my heart

It’s a cool light and it tears the darkness apart

I’m so near it; though it pierces me I don’t fear it

Like a needle; the Word sews into my spirit
There’s a rumble; like a three-day hunger or thirst

Deep inside me, and I think that maybe I’ll burst

Like a freight train on a one-way track through the canyon

Payin’ no mind to the walls of worldly opinion
Do right…and risk the consequences

Jeremiah Thomas – abolitionist, fighter, teenager

As far as I can tell, Jeremiah Thomas is about 16 as I write and record this. During those few years, he has been a courageous voice for unborn children. He has understood that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. And so every human being, from the moment of conception, has the God-given right to life. Jeremiah has been on the front lines of standing up for that right. But now Jeremiah finds himself in the ultimate battle for his own life. (If you prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

Up until a couple of weeks ago I had never heard of Jeremiah Thomas, his family, or his battle with cancer. But a friend of mine on Facebook sent me a message with a link to their story. My friend wondered if I might be able to write some sort of battle song for Jeremiah. I told him I’d look into the story and see what I could come up with. Of course, once I read about the Thomas’ and how Jeremiah was such an UP young guy, I decided I had to try. It didn’t come to me right away, but finally I wrote

Jeremiah’s Prayer – based on a prayer Jeremiah shared online.

I’ll share the lyrics here, along with the link where you can donate to the Thomas family fund. Every dollar you’re able to give will help them overcome the mountain of expenses they incurred in Jeremiah’s battle with cancer.

Jeremiah’s Prayer

I don’t deserve your healing Lord.
But you deserve my praise.
Your great name and your Word
Will lift me up and fill my days.

Oh Lord, please give me strength
So I can fight this battle well…
And courage even satan will
Remember down in hell.

You’re the breath in my lungs.
An you’re the song upon my tongue.
You’re the source of life no doubters can erase.
And through sickness and health,
Lord I consecrate myself
And I just can’t wait to see you face to face.

No one deserves your healing Lord.
But you deserve our praise.
Your great name and your Word
Will lift us up and fill our days,

If we will look to you for strength
And courage to declare
The love and Truth about You
Found in Jeremiah’s prayer.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/jeremiah-thomas/feed/0Jeremiah Thomas – abolitionist, fighter, teenager As far as I can tell, Jeremiah Thomas is about 16 as I write … Read the rest...
As far as I can tell, Jeremiah Thomas is about 16 as I write and record this. During those few years, he has been a courageous voice for unborn children. He has understood that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. And so every human being, from the moment of conception, has the God-given right to life. Jeremiah has been on the front lines of standing up for that right. But now Jeremiah finds himself in the ultimate battle for his own life. (If you prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
Up until a couple of weeks ago I had never heard of Jeremiah Thomas, his family, or his battle with cancer. But a friend of mine on Facebook sent me a message with a link to their story. My friend wondered if I might be able to write some sort of battle song for Jeremiah. I told him I’d look into the story and see what I could come up with. Of course, once I read about the Thomas’ and how Jeremiah was such an UP young guy, I decided I had to try. It didn’t come to me right away, but finally I wrote
Jeremiah’s Prayer – based on a prayer Jeremiah shared online.
I’ll share the lyrics here, along with the link where you can donate to the Thomas family fund. Every dollar you’re able to give will help them overcome the mountain of expenses they incurred in Jeremiah’s battle with cancer.
Jeremiah’s Prayer
I don’t deserve your healing Lord.

But you deserve my praise.

Your great name and your Word

Will lift me up and fill my days.
Oh Lord, please give me strength

So I can fight this battle well…

And courage even satan will

Remember down in hell.
You’re the breath in my lungs.

An you’re the song upon my tongue.

You’re the source of life no doubters can erase.

And through sickness and health,

Lord I consecrate myself

And I just can’t wait to see you face to face.
No one deserves your healing Lord.

But you deserve our praise.

Your great name and your Word

Will lift us up and fill our days,
If we will look to you for strength

Bugs and drugs – this ain’t gonna be pretty

Yeah, you know when the headline mentions bugs and drugs, the story is gonna be a little creepy. And toss in some foul-mouthed thugs, and you’ve got a story only a criminal could love. But I’m just makin’ a quick observation of what I saw in the news lineup today. It’s basically there every day. But today it really stood out. (If you prefer to read rather than listen, tune into this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

Flying spiders and flying high

Apparently spiders have figured out ways to fly on electrical currents. And some weird wasps have figured out how to lay eggs inside spiders. So, maybe it’s no wonder so many humans are choosing to leave reality behind in a cloud of opioid dust. What an amazing and creepy world we live in…right?

And speaking of dope (one dope in particular), another so-called “musical artist” was in the news today for his behavior. Gasp! He was booked on assault charges. I know, I know. That hardly ever happens, right? I’m not gonna mention his name because I don’t wanna give him any extra personalized coverage. Guys like that use bad publicity as a tool to continue their bad behavior without accountability.

So…like I said, bugs and drugs and foul-mouthed thugs. Just another day of life on planet earth. Lots of people say we humans are “basically good”. Of course, nothing could be further from the Truth.

But the bad news doesn’t trump the good news.

Never will. (pun not intended by the way) The good news is, all these bugs and drugs and foul-mouthed thugs have an expiration date with destiny. Bugs have no control over their destiny. Drugs aren’t living beings, so they couldn’t care less. But the foul-mouthed thugs…now, that’s a totally different story. They can choose to change directions and look to their Creator for forgiveness, life, and love. But since most of them would rather try to rule the world than worship the world Maker, it’s not likely they’ll change.

It’s too bad, too. Because eternal life with God in Heaven beats ruling this bug-infested world any day.

Here are the lyrics to the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast:

Nothin’s Gonna Happen To You

Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox. Make it easy on yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/bugs-and-drugs/feed/0Bugs and drugs – this ain’t gonna be pretty Yeah, you know when the headline mentions bugs and drugs, the … Read the rest...
Yeah, you know when the headline mentions bugs and drugs, the story is gonna be a little creepy. And toss in some foul-mouthed thugs, and you’ve got a story only a criminal could love. But I’m just makin’ a quick observation of what I saw in the news lineup today. It’s basically there every day. But today it really stood out. (If you prefer to read rather than listen, tune into this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
Flying spiders and flying high
Apparently spiders have figured out ways to fly on electrical currents. And some weird wasps have figured out how to lay eggs inside spiders. So, maybe it’s no wonder so many humans are choosing to leave reality behind in a cloud of opioid dust. What an amazing and creepy world we live in…right?
And speaking of dope (one dope in particular), another so-called “musical artist” was in the news today for his behavior. Gasp! He was booked on assault charges. I know, I know. That hardly ever happens, right? I’m not gonna mention his name because I don’t wanna give him any extra personalized coverage. Guys like that use bad publicity as a tool to continue their bad behavior without accountability.
So…like I said, bugs and drugs and foul-mouthed thugs. Just another day of life on planet earth. Lots of people say we humans are “basically good”. Of course, nothing could be further from the Truth.
But the bad news doesn’t trump the good news.
Never will. (pun not intended by the way) The good news is, all these bugs and drugs and foul-mouthed thugs have an expiration date with destiny. Bugs have no control over their destiny. Drugs aren’t living beings, so they couldn’t care less. But the foul-mouthed thugs…now, that’s a totally different story. They can choose to change directions and look to their Creator for forgiveness, life, and love. But since most of them would rather try to rule the world than worship the world Maker, it’s not likely they’ll change.
It’s too bad, too. Because eternal life with God in Heaven beats ruling this bug-infested world any day.
Here are the lyrics to the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast:
Nothin’s Gonna Happen To You

Envy and greed – evil twins out to get you

When I think about envy and greed, I can’t help but remember a uniquely special man. He wasn’t envious or greedy. But those evil twins ultimately killed him. And the thing about envy and greed is…they can’t even exist without a helpful host. They need a place to live, and that place is in the hearts of human beings. That’s where they plot and scheme. (If you prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

Envy and greed don’t care who they take down.

Back to that special man. In the eyes of envious and greedy people he did unforgivable things. Like telling everyone who would listen how important their life was. And would you believe he had the audacity to talk about how to love others?! And he even saved a bunch of lives. It’s true. Unbelievable that any man would dare to live that way.

But there were men who didn’t like that unique man’s message. They didn’t appreciate how he started building a massive audience. He was even making what they said were outlandish claims. And they envied how he could back up those claims with action. In other words, he didn’t just talk the talk…he walked the walk. And, as a result, his enemies were so full of envy and greed they decided to have him silenced. Rubbed out. Snuffed. Killed.

Think about it. This wasn’t a drug deal gone bad. In fact, this guy didn’t commit a single crime. Not one. Unless you consider his most outlandish claim of all a crime. “And what was that?” you ask. Well, he did claim to be God.

But like I said, he backed up his claim. How? Remember how I said he saved a bunch of lives? Several of those were people who had already died. He brought them back to life. And he helped other people walk who had never walked before. He helped blind people see. And deaf people hear. What an awful guy…right? Here’s the point…

Jesus was killed by the envy and greed in men’s hearts.

Massive contempt was built up for a man who never committed a crime or a sin in His whole life. And they never stopped or even paused to think about how he was there to help and save them. All they could see was Jesus getting all the attention with His message. And so they ended up yelling, “Crucify him!”

A few years back I wrote about how America is being pillaged by the green-eyed monster of envy. Time has passed, and I see the monster has grown. How? By gaining strength and power in the hearts of more and more men and women. Please, don’t be one of them. Envy and greed destroy your heart and eventually your only hope of happiness. Eternal life in Heaven with your Creator.

America is still a free enough country you can totally disagree with me and we can go on about our lives. But are you willing to risk your potential eternal happiness for your worldview? I am.

The Pure Place

I clamor for the clean life, and I never quite succeed
I’m hunting for the high ground that’s higher than the sky
And I’m looking for the love-life…the kind that we all need
I’m wishing for the wonder that lives in my mind’s eye

I want to find the Pure Place…that glitters like gold
I need to find the Pure Place…never hot or cold
I’d love to find the Pure Place…
Let the Light shine on my face…
No dreams I’d ever have to chase…
No bad that we could not erase…
I’d love to find…the Pure Place!

I’m searching for the sanctity that I never do quite find
I’m longing for the living days that never, ever end
And I’m thinking so theatrically, but at least I use my mind
To quest for the quintessence of my Forever Friend

Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today. Get a free book and songs right away. After that, you’ll get consistent words and music messages of faith, hope, and love delivered right to your inbox. Easy peasy.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/envy-and-greed/feed/0Envy and greed – evil twins out to get you When I think about envy and greed, I can’t help … Read the rest...
When I think about envy and greed, I can’t help but remember a uniquely special man. He wasn’t envious or greedy. But those evil twins ultimately killed him. And the thing about envy and greed is…they can’t even exist without a helpful host. They need a place to live, and that place is in the hearts of human beings. That’s where they plot and scheme. (If you prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
Envy and greed don’t care who they take down.
Back to that special man. In the eyes of envious and greedy people he did unforgivable things. Like telling everyone who would listen how important their life was. And would you believe he had the audacity to talk about how to love others?! And he even saved a bunch of lives. It’s true. Unbelievable that any man would dare to live that way.
But there were men who didn’t like that unique man’s message. They didn’t appreciate how he started building a massive audience. He was even making what they said were outlandish claims. And they envied how he could back up those claims with action. In other words, he didn’t just talk the talk…he walked the walk. And, as a result, his enemies were so full of envy and greed they decided to have him silenced. Rubbed out. Snuffed. Killed.
Think about it. This wasn’t a drug deal gone bad. In fact, this guy didn’t commit a single crime. Not one. Unless you consider his most outlandish claim of all a crime. “And what was that?” you ask. Well, he did claim to be God.
But like I said, he backed up his claim. How? Remember how I said he saved a bunch of lives? Several of those were people who had already died. He brought them back to life. And he helped other people walk who had never walked before. He helped blind people see. And deaf people hear. What an awful guy…right? Here’s the point…
Jesus was killed by the envy and greed in men’s hearts.
Massive contempt was built up for a man who never committed a crime or a sin in His whole life. And they never stopped or even paused to think about how he was there to help and save them. All they could see was Jesus getting all the attention with His message. And so they ended up yelling, “Crucify him!”
A few years back I wrote about how America is being pillaged by the green-eyed monster of envy. Time has passed, and I see the monster has grown. How? By gaining strength and power in the hearts of more and more men and women. Please, don’t be one of them. Envy and greed destroy your heart and eventually your only hope of happiness. Eternal life in Heaven with your Creator.
America is still a free enough country you can totally disagree with me and we can go on about our lives. But are you willing to risk your potential eternal happiness for your worldview? I am.
Here are the lyrics to the song shared in this Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode:
The Pure Place
I clamor for the clean life, and I never quite succeed

I’m hunting for the high ground that’s higher than the sky

And I’m looking for the love-life…the kind that we all need

I’m wishing for the wonder that lives in my mind’s eye
I want to find the Pure Place…that glitters like gold

Are you getting what you deserve? I hope not.

Sometimes getting what you deserve is not a good thing. For example, when I was a kid, I remember getting some spankings I deserved. But I wasn’t glad about it. Quite the opposite. I’m sure you can think of a time in your life when you got what you deserved and it left you feeling empty. Right? (If you prefer to listen rather than read, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 237) And click the pic, below, to get your own “Cool With That” t-shirt…

Imagine getting what you deserve and it lasts forever.

I’ve got some good news and some bad news for you. First the bad news: you’re not a good person. I’m not being arrogant or self-righteous because I’m not a good person either. But here’s the good news: being a good person might only get you what you deserve. And the end results are forever. Maybe I should explain.

What you and I deserve is an eternity of selfish loneliness. If you’re like me (and chances are you are), you’ve spent more than a little time focusing on why others should recognize you as king of the world…at least metaphorically speaking. And during that self-focused time, you justified the things you did or said or demanded from others. Right? It’s a good idea to humble yourself and admit it. Remember, admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery.

That tendency you have to be your own king and handle everything will get you what you deserve. And I guarantee you won’t like it. You were designed to be eternal…by an eternal Creator. Choices you make in your life can have eternal consequences. The most important consequence will be where you spend eternity.

If you get what you deserve, your eternity will be a universe of one.

You will exist alone forever. And like I said…I guarantee you won’t like it. Most people aren’t good at spending a day with their own thoughts…never mind eternity. See, here’s the point…you sin. I sin. We all sin. Sin is a real thing, and it exists because human beings rebel against the God who made ’em and loves ’em. It’s terrible, but it’s true. So, I hope you join me in being sorry for all the bad things you’ve done to others and yourself.

I hope you realize it’s only too late to decide once you’ve died. While you’re still breathing, you can choose to love the One who made you and wants you to live forever. You can still avoid getting what you deserve. Who’s with me?

If you’ve already decided to trust Jesus…or if you’re making that choice today, click on the picture above and get your “Not Getting What I Deserve” t-shirt. Trust me, you’ll be much cooler than you might imagine.

Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox. Make it easy on yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/getting-what-you-deserve/feed/0Are you getting what you deserve? I hope not. Sometimes getting what you deserve is not a good thing. For … Read the rest...
Sometimes getting what you deserve is not a good thing. For example, when I was a kid, I remember getting some spankings I deserved. But I wasn’t glad about it. Quite the opposite. I’m sure you can think of a time in your life when you got what you deserved and it left you feeling empty. Right? (If you prefer to listen rather than read, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 237) And click the pic, below, to get your own “Cool With That” t-shirt…
Imagine getting what you deserve and it lasts forever.
I’ve got some good news and some bad news for you. First the bad news: you’re not a good person. I’m not being arrogant or self-righteous because I’m not a good person either. But here’s the good news: being a good person might only get you what you deserve. And the end results are forever. Maybe I should explain.
What you and I deserve is an eternity of selfish loneliness. If you’re like me (and chances are you are), you’ve spent more than a little time focusing on why others should recognize you as king of the world…at least metaphorically speaking. And during that self-focused time, you justified the things you did or said or demanded from others. Right? It’s a good idea to humble yourself and admit it. Remember, admitting you have a problem is the first step to recovery.
That tendency you have to be your own king and handle everything will get you what you deserve. And I guarantee you won’t like it. You were designed to be eternal…by an eternal Creator. Choices you make in your life can have eternal consequences. The most important consequence will be where you spend eternity.
If you get what you deserve, your eternity will be a universe of one.
You will exist alone forever. And like I said…I guarantee you won’t like it. Most people aren’t good at spending a day with their own thoughts…never mind eternity. See, here’s the point…you sin. I sin. We all sin. Sin is a real thing, and it exists because human beings rebel against the God who made ’em and loves ’em. It’s terrible, but it’s true. So, I hope you join me in being sorry for all the bad things you’ve done to others and yourself.
I hope you realize it’s only too late to decide once you’ve died. While you’re still breathing, you can choose to love the One who made you and wants you to live forever. You can still avoid getting what you deserve. Who’s with me?
If you’ve already decided to trust Jesus…or if you’re making that choice today, click on the picture above and get your “Not Getting What I Deserve” t-shirt. Trust me, you’ll be much cooler than you might imagine.
Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox. Make it easy on yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean9:16
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Liberty and freedom – What kind of people need ’em?https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/liberty-and-freedom/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/liberty-and-freedom/#respondSun, 01 Jul 2018 12:49:26 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18209Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Who doesn’t love liberty and freedom? I’ve been watching America decline into self-loathing and self-induced slavery for the past couple …Read the rest...

Who doesn’t love liberty and freedom?

I’ve been watching America decline into self-loathing and self-induced slavery for the past couple of decades. And I’m amazed at how quickly so many people are willing to sell their liberty and freedom to the highest bidder. (translate that into sleazy politician) – If you prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme & Reason Podcast:

This Independence Day think about what a gift your liberty and freedom are.

Consider how high a price many Americans have paid in order for you to gripe about not getting enough benefits from your employers. Or complain about how the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Brave men and women have given their lives so you can drink beer, drop f-bombs, and drag reputations through the mud.

How about taking a right turn off that superhighway to nowhere. And how about giving up your envy of someone else’s success. Focus on your own God-given abilities and see where you can go. You might be amazed at how high your dreams can lift you off that dunghill of doubt and depression you’ve allowed yourself to live on. Your success might never equal that elusive billionaire status. But keep in mind, most billionaires are not going to Heaven.

Liberty and freedom give you a head start over tyrannical governments.

We humans are funny creatures. Especially those of us who’ve had the good fortune to be born into a “free” society.
Yet…Americans tend to be very image-bound and sound-byte-gagged.

First, we see what seems to be the definition of success, and we measure ourselves against it. When the dollar amounts are staggering, or the beauty is beyond fantasy, or the “stuff” is piled up on TV, we feel pitifully inadequate.

But we are not the sum total of our dollars, beauty, or “stuff”. We’re not the sum total of the labels we wear through this life. We’re not the sum total of the varied opinions about us. Those don’t make us, and they shouldn’t break us. Here’s what I recommend…

Work to produce…not for the money.

Play to relax…not to escape.

Laugh to enjoy…not to cover up.

Love to give…not to acquire.

And live to be thankful…not to compare.

You are the sum total of where you position yourself for eternity.

And whether you like it or not, you’re one of those kind of people who urgently need liberty and freedom.

Here are the lyrics to the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast:

Freedom

Faith working through love…
Let’s praise God for our liberty…
Christ paid off our debt…
Only in Him are we truly free.

Love leads into joy…
Law leads back into slavery…
God gave us The Way.
Just believe, and we’re truly free.

Freedom from the law that kills, Freedom with our own free wills,
Freedom from the world of sin…Just let Jesus in, let the joy begin
Share a hopeful grin, with the Lord “We Win”!
Praise God for what we can become
With our freedom.

What law couldn’t do
Jesus did with finality.
He rose up from the dead
And promised the same life for you and me.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/liberty-and-freedom/feed/0Who doesn’t love liberty and freedom? I’ve been watching America decline into self-loathing and self-induced slavery for the past couple … Read the rest...
I’ve been watching America decline into self-loathing and self-induced slavery for the past couple of decades. And I’m amazed at how quickly so many people are willing to sell their liberty and freedom to the highest bidder. (translate that into sleazy politician) – If you prefer to listen rather than read, check out this episode of the Rhyme & Reason Podcast:
This Independence Day think about what a gift your liberty and freedom are.
Consider how high a price many Americans have paid in order for you to gripe about not getting enough benefits from your employers. Or complain about how the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. Brave men and women have given their lives so you can drink beer, drop f-bombs, and drag reputations through the mud.
How about taking a right turn off that superhighway to nowhere. And how about giving up your envy of someone else’s success. Focus on your own God-given abilities and see where you can go. You might be amazed at how high your dreams can lift you off that dunghill of doubt and depression you’ve allowed yourself to live on. Your success might never equal that elusive billionaire status. But keep in mind, most billionaires are not going to Heaven.
Liberty and freedom give you a head start over tyrannical governments.
We humans are funny creatures. Especially those of us who’ve had the good fortune to be born into a “free” society.

Yet…Americans tend to be very image-bound and sound-byte-gagged.
First, we see what seems to be the definition of success, and we measure ourselves against it. When the dollar amounts are staggering, or the beauty is beyond fantasy, or the “stuff” is piled up on TV, we feel pitifully inadequate.
But we are not the sum total of our dollars, beauty, or “stuff”. We’re not the sum total of the labels we wear through this life. We’re not the sum total of the varied opinions about us. Those don’t make us, and they shouldn’t break us. Here’s what I recommend…

* Work to produce…not for the money.
* Play to relax…not to escape.
* Laugh to enjoy…not to cover up.
* Love to give…not to acquire.
* And live to be thankful…not to compare.

You are the sum total of where you position yourself for eternity.
And whether you like it or not, you’re one of those kind of people who urgently need liberty and freedom.
Here are the lyrics to the song featured in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast:
Freedom
Faith working through love…

Let’s praise God for our liberty…

Christ paid off our debt…

Only in Him are we truly free.
Love leads into joy…

Law leads back into slavery…

God gave us The Way.

Just believe, and we’re truly free.
Freedom from the law that kills, Freedom with our own free wills,

Is Christian Cool…cool?

I’ve been thinking over some “real” stuff lately. As cool as I think the digital world is (or can be), it doesn’t hold a candle to the real world. And by that I mean people. And by people, I especially mean Christian people. But not the ones who focus on being Christian cool.

There’s a place in the Bible where it actually tells Christians not to be “conformed to this world“. The dictionary says to conform to something means to behave according to socially acceptable standards. And, I don’t know if you’ve noticed how low the “acceptable standards” haven’t gotten on social media platforms, but it’s snake belly low. That’s not where we need to be if we want to represent the Body of Christ.

Making church a “cool” place to go is not the purpose of church. It’s not supposed to look or feel like other places. Your church should be a place where believers go to be (or get) equipped to spread the message of the saving Grace of Jesus. It’s not a place where unbelievers should feel comfortable.

Unbelievers should want to go to your church to seek God. Not watch a concert.

I know that sounds completely opposite of what you’re probably hearing from most churches these days. But guess what? Most churches are doing more harm to the Body of Christ than good. They’re preaching feel-good messages that don’t challenge atheists, agnostics, pagans, and the typical garden-variety unbelievers. Most churches are so busy being Christian cool, they’re clueless about “rightly dividing the word of Truth.”

I’d like you to think about this as you check your Facebook updates, Twitter posts, Google pluses, and YouTube videos today. We’re not gravatars. Not profiles. We’re not usernames and passwords. We are humans. And we really need to focus on being real again. Don’t get me wrong…the social media tools are excellent means of communication.

But c’mon people! They should never be a replacement for real-live-face-to-face communication. Otherwise the pasteurization, homogenization, and sterilization of society leads even the Christian remnant to believe in self…in a skewed Christian cool. And that ain’t never gonna do anybody any good.

Here are the lyrics to the song included in this episode of the podcast:

Worldliness

Where is your vision?
Where do you lay your treasure?
Have you been wanton?
And living in earthly pleasure?
Ask and receive not
And trust in your worldly friendship;
Then stand afflicted because of your lustful kinship.

Have you been tempted?
Have you made greed your mistress?
Your gold is rusted; it’s your accusing witness!
Who is your master?
You can’t serve two forever!
Resist the devil; the Word is your only lever!

Worldliness; don’t let your joy turn into heaviness!
Worldliness;don’t let it rob you of your righteousness!
Draw near to God and He’ll draw near to you!
Worldliness will never do what He can do!

So be patient; be wary;sing songs, and be merry.
Then focus your attentionon more than this world’s dimension!

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/christian-cool/feed/6Is Christian Cool…cool? I’ve been thinking over some “real” stuff lately. As cool as I think the digital world is … Read the rest...
I’ve been thinking over some “real” stuff lately. As cool as I think the digital world is (or can be), it doesn’t hold a candle to the real world. And by that I mean people. And by people, I especially mean Christian people. But not the ones who focus on being Christian cool.

There’s a place in the Bible where it actually tells Christians not to be “conformed to this world“. The dictionary says to conform to something means to behave according to socially acceptable standards. And, I don’t know if you’ve noticed how low the “acceptable standards” haven’t gotten on social media platforms, but it’s snake belly low. That’s not where we need to be if we want to represent the Body of Christ.
Making church a “cool” place to go is not the purpose of church. It’s not supposed to look or feel like other places. Your church should be a place where believers go to be (or get) equipped to spread the message of the saving Grace of Jesus. It’s not a place where unbelievers should feel comfortable.
Unbelievers should want to go to your church to seek God. Not watch a concert.
I know that sounds completely opposite of what you’re probably hearing from most churches these days. But guess what? Most churches are doing more harm to the Body of Christ than good. They’re preaching feel-good messages that don’t challenge atheists, agnostics, pagans, and the typical garden-variety unbelievers. Most churches are so busy being Christian cool, they’re clueless about “rightly dividing the word of Truth.”
I’d like you to think about this as you check your Facebook updates, Twitter posts, Google pluses, and YouTube videos today. We’re not gravatars. Not profiles. We’re not usernames and passwords. We are humans. And we really need to focus on being real again. Don’t get me wrong…the social media tools are excellent means of communication.
But c’mon people! They should never be a replacement for real-live-face-to-face communication. Otherwise the pasteurization, homogenization, and sterilization of society leads even the Christian remnant to believe in self…in a skewed Christian cool. And that ain’t never gonna do anybody any good.
Stay tuned,

For more messages like this, be sure to tune into the weekly Rhyme and Reason Podcast on many popular channels.
Here are the lyrics to the song included in this episode of the podcast:
Worldliness
Where is your vision?

Frankincense and Myrrh – not just token gifts

Quite a few years ago, my wife and I enjoyed a special Christmas presentation put on by some little kids in our church. Our favorite part was when one of the kids, dressed as a wise man, made his gift-giving speech for the baby, Jesus. He talked about how they had travelled far bearing gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh. But what made it memorable was how he said it. Gold and fwankincense and muh. He had a bit of a pwoblem with R’s. And just so you know…he grew up to be quite a public speaker…no more problems with R’s. (if you prefer to listen instead of read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)

Frankincense and myrrh should be in your health and wellness playbook.

What do you think of when you hear terms like: pain reliever, or anti-fungal, or hormonal balance? I hope your first thought isn’t, “Where’s the closest Walgreen’s?” You’re much better off to change your mindset from treating symptoms to treating and getting rid of causes.

For example, did you know frankincense has been used for thousands of years as a pain reliever? In fact, it has some amazing healing properties. Like its ability to inhibit certain enzymes that cause inflammation in your body. And inflammation is why you experience pain. Frankincense also helps balance your hormones, digest food better, and even keep your skin healthy. Pretty important things, wouldn’t you agree?

Myrrh has some of the same benefits as frankincense. And it’s also anti-fungal. So, start thinking about what’s gonna help you get rid of health problems instead of just what’s gonna make the pain go away the quickest. Skip the drug stores (the middle men) and go straight to the sources found in plants and food.

You’re a complex design and you deserve the best.

Drugs are not the best. I’m not saying to never take any drugs. I’m saying they’re generally not the best solution. A well-balanced lifestyle including real foods, fresh air, exercise, and plenty of good, filtered water…that’s the best solution. And when you include essential oils like frankincense and myrrh, you’re giving yourself the best shot at good health.

The best grade essential oils aren’t cheap. But they’re still cheaper than going to the doctor every time your arthritis flairs up. Or your hormones are out of balance. Or you feel depressed. Doctors ensure their job security by prescribing drugs. Not healing patients. I know that’s harsh. But it’s true. The ones who truly care about your health are much fewer and farther between than they ever were.

What that means is you absolutely MUST take responsibility for your health. I heard one guy say, “Self-care is the very best healthcare.” It doesn’t mean you’ll take essential oils, eat real foods, and never get sick again. But it does mean you’ll be giving your body the best shot at protecting itself from germs, bacteria, and viruses.

I’m on this journey. And I hope you’ll join me. What do you say? Are you up for some fwankincense and muh?

Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my sound ideas delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time. If you’d like me to work on your project, email me about it, and let’s see if we’re a good match. Use the form on the side. Even if we don’t end up working together, you’ll still get some great free stuff to get you going on your own.

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. Or use any of the social media links below.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/frankincense-and-myrrh/feed/0Frankincense and Myrrh – not just token gifts Quite a few years ago, my wife and I enjoyed a special … Read the rest...
Quite a few years ago, my wife and I enjoyed a special Christmas presentation put on by some little kids in our church. Our favorite part was when one of the kids, dressed as a wise man, made his gift-giving speech for the baby, Jesus. He talked about how they had travelled far bearing gifts of gold and frankincense and myrrh. But what made it memorable was how he said it. Gold and fwankincense and muh. He had a bit of a pwoblem with R’s. And just so you know…he grew up to be quite a public speaker…no more problems with R’s. (if you prefer to listen instead of read, check out this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast)
Frankincense and myrrh should be in your health and wellness playbook.
What do you think of when you hear terms like: pain reliever, or anti-fungal, or hormonal balance? I hope your first thought isn’t, “Where’s the closest Walgreen’s?” You’re much better off to change your mindset from treating symptoms to treating and getting rid of causes.
For example, did you know frankincense has been used for thousands of years as a pain reliever? In fact, it has some amazing healing properties. Like its ability to inhibit certain enzymes that cause inflammation in your body. And inflammation is why you experience pain. Frankincense also helps balance your hormones, digest food better, and even keep your skin healthy. Pretty important things, wouldn’t you agree?
Myrrh has some of the same benefits as frankincense. And it’s also anti-fungal. So, start thinking about what’s gonna help you get rid of health problems instead of just what’s gonna make the pain go away the quickest. Skip the drug stores (the middle men) and go straight to the sources found in plants and food.
You’re a complex design and you deserve the best.
Drugs are not the best. I’m not saying to never take any drugs. I’m saying they’re generally not the best solution. A well-balanced lifestyle including real foods, fresh air, exercise, and plenty of good, filtered water…that’s the best solution. And when you include essential oils like frankincense and myrrh, you’re giving yourself the best shot at good health.
The best grade essential oils aren’t cheap. But they’re still cheaper than going to the doctor every time your arthritis flairs up. Or your hormones are out of balance. Or you feel depressed. Doctors ensure their job security by prescribing drugs. Not healing patients. I know that’s harsh. But it’s true. The ones who truly care about your health are much fewer and farther between than they ever were.
What that means is you absolutely MUST take responsibility for your health. I heard one guy say, “Self-care is the very best healthcare.” It doesn’t mean you’ll take essential oils, eat real foods, and never get sick again. But it does mean you’ll be giving your body the best shot at protecting itself from germs, bacteria, and viruses.
I’m on this journey. And I hope you’ll join me. What do you say? Are you up for some fwankincense and muh?

Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my sound ideas delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time. If you’d like me to work on your project, email me about it, and let’s see if we’re a good match. Use the form on the side. Even if we don’t end up working together, you’ll still get some great free stuff to get you going on your own.
Share my rhymes and reasons with ...]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:49
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The mind of God is such a lightning rodhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-mind-of-god/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-mind-of-god/#respondSun, 17 Jun 2018 03:13:42 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18142Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

The mind of God – probably not what you think It’s all part of God’s plan. How many times have …Read the rest...

The mind of God – probably not what you think

It’s all part of God’s plan. How many times have I heard that…from Christians? And it makes me cringe. Every. Single. Time. They’ve fallen for the Platonic view of God rather than what God actually says about Himself in the Bible. He reveals His nature over and over, throughout the Bible, and it’s nothing like Plato described. The mind of God contains everything any of us will ever need for life, love, and happiness. But talking about what God does or doesn’t do…or what God knows or doesn’t know…divides Christians faster than lightning divides the night sky. (If you prefer to listen rather than read, here’s the Rhyme & Reason Podcast episode 229)

Before I go any further I’d like to ask you a question. You know Plato wasn’t a Christian…right? Quite the opposite in fact. He was a pagan Greek philosopher. Yet, he influenced one of the biggest Christian influencers, Augustine. And that influence was so strong that Augustine interpreted the Bible based on what Plato said about God…instead of what God said about Himself. That’s a YUGE problem.

The mind of God isn’t revealed in Greek philosophy.

It’s important to know that your one, true, living, loving Creator (aka God) designed you to be an awesome reflection of Him and His nature. But (and this is a big BUT) He didn’t decide, before the foundation of the world, every thought you’d think, every word you’d say, or every action you’d take.

God took a gigantic risk and let you have your own will.

Some would say that didn’t turn out so well. Of course, I’d disagree. Because having your own will means you get to make your own choices. And making your own choices means TRUE love is a distinct possibility. Sadly, it also means true hate is a distinct possibility. But that’s a necessary and possible consequence of free will.

The Greek philosophers, like Plato, said if God is perfect, then He can’t change in any way. According to them, that would take away from His perfection. Their silly claims say God is:

Impassible (He has no passion)

Immutable (He never changes)

Impeccable (He’s unable to sin)

But the mind of God IS revealed in His Word and it’s not like those claims.

If God, Himself, told you He loves, or that He changes, or that He resisted all sin, would you believe Him? Or would you prefer to believe what pagans say about His character? I hope you choose God’s word on the subject instead of Plato’s. When you do, you’ll discover love beyond comprehension. Mercy and care beyond understanding. You’ll discover the Creator who CAN be moved and affected by your cries for help and your prayers of thanksgiving.

The horrible things that happen in this world are absolutely NOT part of God’s plan. He’s not working evil things together toward some “greater good”. In fact, He says don’t do evil that good may come of it. And He’s a good Father. So, He wouldn’t tell us to do as He says and not as He does. Some of the most despicable and vile things we humans have done never even entered God’s mind. That means He certainly didn’t plan them.

The good news is…because God DOES change and love and feel emotions, you can have an awesome relationship with Him. A real relationship. Not make-believe. One that can last forever. He wants that for you. But He won’t force it on you, if you don’t want it. My hope for anyone who doesn’t already trust Jesus to be The Way, The Truth, and The Life is that they’ll change their minds while they’re still breathing here on planet Earth.

If that’s you, I promise you’ll love discovering how you’re here because you came from the mind of God.

Here are the lyrics to the song included in the Rhyme and Reason Podcast 229

Consequential Servitude

God looked down on me…
He knew I was wrong
Usurped my position
I held for so long
Yeah, He just took over…
Where my brain left off
He knew it was risky…
He knew they’d all scoff
Sometimes I’m so stupid,
And so often blind…
Trade reason for feelings;
Mistakes underlined

And so again; I behold the outer man
Through God’s condescending attitude,
And I defer to the perfect Architect
And this consequential servitude

He spirals His thoughts…
Through my barricade
He knows I am feeble…
Yet hands me His blade
He tells me to rise up…
From my Phoenix blight
He builds me a fortress
Of conquering Light
When my clay is brittle…
And crumbles to sand
I long to be putty…
In my Master’s hand…

And then I can behold the inner man
Through God’s condescending attitude
Because He chose me as His dwelling place
I choose this consequential servitude

There were no incantations, no hallelujah chorus
He succumbed to His detractors; withstood an inquisition…
And then commended His spirit, relinquished His position,
And then He died a death that was for us!

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-mind-of-god/feed/0The mind of God – probably not what you think It’s all part of God’s plan. How many times have … Read the rest...
It’s all part of God’s plan. How many times have I heard that…from Christians? And it makes me cringe. Every. Single. Time. They’ve fallen for the Platonic view of God rather than what God actually says about Himself in the Bible. He reveals His nature over and over, throughout the Bible, and it’s nothing like Plato described. The mind of God contains everything any of us will ever need for life, love, and happiness. But talking about what God does or doesn’t do…or what God knows or doesn’t know…divides Christians faster than lightning divides the night sky. (If you prefer to listen rather than read, here’s the Rhyme & Reason Podcast episode 229)
Before I go any further I’d like to ask you a question. You know Plato wasn’t a Christian…right? Quite the opposite in fact. He was a pagan Greek philosopher. Yet, he influenced one of the biggest Christian influencers, Augustine. And that influence was so strong that Augustine interpreted the Bible based on what Plato said about God…instead of what God said about Himself. That’s a YUGE problem.
The mind of God isn’t revealed in Greek philosophy.
It’s important to know that your one, true, living, loving Creator (aka God) designed you to be an awesome reflection of Him and His nature. But (and this is a big BUT) He didn’t decide, before the foundation of the world, every thought you’d think, every word you’d say, or every action you’d take.
God took a gigantic risk and let you have your own will.
Some would say that didn’t turn out so well. Of course, I’d disagree. Because having your own will means you get to make your own choices. And making your own choices means TRUE love is a distinct possibility. Sadly, it also means true hate is a distinct possibility. But that’s a necessary and possible consequence of free will.
The Greek philosophers, like Plato, said if God is perfect, then He can’t change in any way. According to them, that would take away from His perfection. Their silly claims say God is:

But the mind of God IS revealed in His Word and it’s not like those claims.
If God, Himself, told you He loves, or that He changes, or that He resisted all sin, would you believe Him? Or would you prefer to believe what pagans say about His character? I hope you choose God’s word on the subject instead of Plato’s. When you do, you’ll discover love beyond comprehension. Mercy and care beyond understanding. You’ll discover the Creator who CAN be moved and affected by your cries for help and your prayers of thanksgiving.
The horrible things that happen in this world are absolutely NOT part of God’s plan. He’s not working evil things together toward some “greater good”. In fact, He says don’t do evil that good may come of it. And He’s a good Father. So, He wouldn’t tell us to do as He says and not as He does. Some of the most despicable and vile things we humans have done never even entered God’s mind. That means He certainly didn’t plan them.
The good news is…because God DOES change and love and feel emotions, you can have an awesome relationship with Him. A real relationship. Not make-believe. One that can last forever. He wants that for you. But He won’t force it on you, if you don’t want it. My hope for anyone who doesn’t already trust Jesus to be The Way, The Truth, and The Life is that they’ll change their minds while they’re st...]]>Tony Funderburkclean13:29
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No i in Team so chance is just a dreamhttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/no-i-in-team/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/no-i-in-team/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 11:07:53 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18138Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

There is no i in TEAM How many times have you heard that said on TV, in movies, or on …Read the rest...

There is no i in TEAM

How many times have you heard that said on TV, in movies, or on the sidelines at sporting events? There is no i in team – And have you noticed how many movies are starting to put teams together to solve a problem? Action movie heroes and antiheroes, like Rambo or The Terminator or 007 were the norm for years. But now there seems to be a trend of gathering “heroes” together as a cohesive unit to solve problems. Nothing wrong with either approach. But I’m gonna talk about the team thing for just a bit. If you prefer to listen rather than read, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 226:

No i in TEAM and no TEAM without design

Way, way back in the fourth quarter of the twentieth century I bought a cassette tape of comedy by Steve Martin. It was called “Let’s Get Small”. Keep in mind I was young and not so concerned with being a “good Christian.” And the comedy on Steve Martin’s tape had some inappropriate language. It was extremely mild compared to most of today’s comedians, but it shouldn’t have been there. Mr. Martin was plenty funny without it.

Anyway…the title bit, “Let’s Get Small” was about getting small instead of getting high. His play on words and innuendo were great. And when he went a step further and said, “Let’s get REALLY small”, it just took it all to an even funnier level for me. I listened to the whole tape on a 45 minute drive home, and when I got there, I had to listen to it again to catch the parts I missed while laughing.

Why did I share all that with you? Because I wanna get really small and talk about why there’s no i in team when it comes to how your body works.

Teams were designed by I…Am.

You probably know how important your white blood cells are…right? If you didn’t have them, you wouldn’t survive long. They’re amazing little devices that seek out and destroy harmful bacterium in your body. And they have to be able to tell whether something in your body is a “friend” or the “enemy”. And they’ve got to be working 24 hours a day.

Dr. Walt Brown wrote, in his book “In The Beginning”, about white blood cells and their functions. He said, “The equipment for each function requires careful design. Unless all this worked well from the beginning of life, a requirement that rules out evolution, bacteria and other agents of disease would have won, and we would not be here to marvel at these hidden abilities in our bodies.”

It makes total sense. The functioning “team” of equipment in each white blood cell had to be there from the beginning. Waiting for all the parts to come together by chance (evolution) or depending on individual parts would have meant no other cells could have survived. And that means no higher life forms would have ever come into existence.

The information in your DNA makes you both unique and a complex individual. You can exist, function, live, and love because the loving Creator of Heaven and Earth made you, loves you, and wants you to live forever.

So, while it’s true there is no i in TEAM, the great I AM is in every i…you and me. At least if you want Him to be. No pressure. It’s just a matter of eternal life or death. Maybe something to think about as you get your teamwork done this week.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/no-i-in-team/feed/0There is no i in TEAM How many times have you heard that said on TV, in movies, or on … Read the rest...
How many times have you heard that said on TV, in movies, or on the sidelines at sporting events? There is no i in team – And have you noticed how many movies are starting to put teams together to solve a problem? Action movie heroes and antiheroes, like Rambo or The Terminator or 007 were the norm for years. But now there seems to be a trend of gathering “heroes” together as a cohesive unit to solve problems. Nothing wrong with either approach. But I’m gonna talk about the team thing for just a bit. If you prefer to listen rather than read, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 226:
No i in TEAM and no TEAM without design
Way, way back in the fourth quarter of the twentieth century I bought a cassette tape of comedy by Steve Martin. It was called “Let’s Get Small”. Keep in mind I was young and not so concerned with being a “good Christian.” And the comedy on Steve Martin’s tape had some inappropriate language. It was extremely mild compared to most of today’s comedians, but it shouldn’t have been there. Mr. Martin was plenty funny without it.
Anyway…the title bit, “Let’s Get Small” was about getting small instead of getting high. His play on words and innuendo were great. And when he went a step further and said, “Let’s get REALLY small”, it just took it all to an even funnier level for me. I listened to the whole tape on a 45 minute drive home, and when I got there, I had to listen to it again to catch the parts I missed while laughing.
Why did I share all that with you? Because I wanna get really small and talk about why there’s no i in team when it comes to how your body works.
Teams were designed by I…Am.
You probably know how important your white blood cells are…right? If you didn’t have them, you wouldn’t survive long. They’re amazing little devices that seek out and destroy harmful bacterium in your body. And they have to be able to tell whether something in your body is a “friend” or the “enemy”. And they’ve got to be working 24 hours a day.
Dr. Walt Brown wrote, in his book “In The Beginning”, about white blood cells and their functions. He said, “The equipment for each function requires careful design. Unless all this worked well from the beginning of life, a requirement that rules out evolution, bacteria and other agents of disease would have won, and we would not be here to marvel at these hidden abilities in our bodies.”
It makes total sense. The functioning “team” of equipment in each white blood cell had to be there from the beginning. Waiting for all the parts to come together by chance (evolution) or depending on individual parts would have meant no other cells could have survived. And that means no higher life forms would have ever come into existence.
The information in your DNA makes you both unique and a complex individual. You can exist, function, live, and love because the loving Creator of Heaven and Earth made you, loves you, and wants you to live forever.
So, while it’s true there is no i in TEAM, the great I AM is in every i…you and me. At least if you want Him to be. No pressure. It’s just a matter of eternal life or death. Maybe something to think about as you get your teamwork done this week.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean13:16
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Double Trouble – I’m gonna burst your Bible Bubblehttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/double-trouble/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/double-trouble/#respondSun, 27 May 2018 11:43:56 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18084Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Double Trouble Recently I told you about the “one Gospel” found in the Bible…in Paul’s writings. But I wasn’t being …Read the rest...

Double Trouble

Recently I told you about the “one Gospel” found in the Bible…in Paul’s writings. But I wasn’t being completely truthful with you. Paul was, but I wasn’t. So, I’ve got double trouble for you today. Especially if you think the one Gospel Paul talked about in Galatians is the only one. I’m about to burst that bubble. (If you prefer to listen, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 223…

Here’s what I said in my “one Gospel” article: “Not every worldview or perspective or even so-called ‘gospel’ can be true. The word ‘gospel’ comes from an old English word, ‘godspell’ which simply means good news or glad tidings. And that word comes from a Greek word that means ‘good message’. When the apostle Paul wrote about there being only one gospel, he was referring to the ‘gospel of Christ’ There can only be one ‘good news’ of Christ. That good news is simply this…that Jesus came to die for his people, the Jews…they rejected Him, and so He took His message of eternal life to the Gentiles through His Apostle Paul.”

Here’s where the double trouble comes in.

There’s another Gospel found in the New Testament. Gasp! And it’s also the “one Gospel”. Uh…what? Yeah, there are two Gospels in the New Testament…and they’re each the “one Gospel”. Sort of depends on who you are.

I’ll let you in on a not-so-well-kept secret. I’m not a Jew. I’ve never been one, and I never even played one on TV. So, the other “one Gospel” found in the New Testament isn’t for me. Because it’s for Jews. You can start to sort this out once you know who’s writing to whom. Here’s a hint: if you’re not a Jew, the Apostle Paul’s writings are to YOU. If you ARE a Jew (at least one who wants to trust and believe in Jesus as savior), then all those other books in the New Testament are to YOU.

Peter, James, John, and the other nine apostles (excluding Paul) wrote letters (those books) to Jews who wanted to trust Jesus to be the Messiah…but…who just couldn’t seem to give up following the Law of Moses.

Paul wrote letters (those other books in the New Testament) to anyone who wanted to believe in Jesus based on faith alone. Mostly those people were known as Gentiles. Anyone not a Jew. Like me. And you? So, almost by necessity (unfortunately) two Gospels rose up. Peter (and the twelve) took what Paul called a “circumcision” message to the people of Israel. And Paul took what he called the “uncircumcision” message to the Gentiles.

I call it double trouble because it can burst your Gospel bubble.

You can doubt me or disagree with me, but you’ll be doubting and disagreeing with the Bible, too, if you do. That’s entirely up to you. But again…don’t take my word for it. Go read the Bible. I promise…the proof is found in one of Paul’s letters. But you gotta be ready to have your bubble burst. Are you ready to roll the rock?

You can also jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.

And share with your friends, family, and other business owners by using any of the social media links below.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/double-trouble/feed/0Double Trouble Recently I told you about the “one Gospel” found in the Bible…in Paul’s writings. But I wasn’t being … Read the rest...
Recently I told you about the “one Gospel” found in the Bible…in Paul’s writings. But I wasn’t being completely truthful with you. Paul was, but I wasn’t. So, I’ve got double trouble for you today. Especially if you think the one Gospel Paul talked about in Galatians is the only one. I’m about to burst that bubble. (If you prefer to listen, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 223…
Here’s what I said in my “one Gospel” article: “Not every worldview or perspective or even so-called ‘gospel’ can be true. The word ‘gospel’ comes from an old English word, ‘godspell’ which simply means good news or glad tidings. And that word comes from a Greek word that means ‘good message’. When the apostle Paul wrote about there being only one gospel, he was referring to the ‘gospel of Christ’ There can only be one ‘good news’ of Christ. That good news is simply this…that Jesus came to die for his people, the Jews…they rejected Him, and so He took His message of eternal life to the Gentiles through His Apostle Paul.”
Here’s where the double trouble comes in.
There’s another Gospel found in the New Testament. Gasp! And it’s also the “one Gospel”. Uh…what? Yeah, there are two Gospels in the New Testament…and they’re each the “one Gospel”. Sort of depends on who you are.
I’ll let you in on a not-so-well-kept secret. I’m not a Jew. I’ve never been one, and I never even played one on TV. So, the other “one Gospel” found in the New Testament isn’t for me. Because it’s for Jews. You can start to sort this out once you know who’s writing to whom. Here’s a hint: if you’re not a Jew, the Apostle Paul’s writings are to YOU. If you ARE a Jew (at least one who wants to trust and believe in Jesus as savior), then all those other books in the New Testament are to YOU.
Peter, James, John, and the other nine apostles (excluding Paul) wrote letters (those books) to Jews who wanted to trust Jesus to be the Messiah…but…who just couldn’t seem to give up following the Law of Moses.
Paul wrote letters (those other books in the New Testament) to anyone who wanted to believe in Jesus based on faith alone. Mostly those people were known as Gentiles. Anyone not a Jew. Like me. And you? So, almost by necessity (unfortunately) two Gospels rose up. Peter (and the twelve) took what Paul called a “circumcision” message to the people of Israel. And Paul took what he called the “uncircumcision” message to the Gentiles.
I call it double trouble because it can burst your Gospel bubble.
You can doubt me or disagree with me, but you’ll be doubting and disagreeing with the Bible, too, if you do. That’s entirely up to you. But again…don’t take my word for it. Go read the Bible. I promise…the proof is found in one of Paul’s letters. But you gotta be ready to have your bubble burst. Are you ready to roll the rock?
You can also jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my latest words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox instead of having to come looking for them all the time.
And share with your friends, family, and other business owners by using any of the social media links below.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean11:46
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Relaxing music plays and the audience still stayshttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/relaxing-music/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/relaxing-music/#respondWed, 23 May 2018 11:49:28 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18078Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Relaxing Music – it ain’t just for sleepin’ The vast majority of the time I listen to music, these days, …Read the rest...

Relaxing Music – it ain’t just for sleepin’

The vast majority of the time I listen to music, these days, it’s on my iPhone using either my Apple music app or Pandora. While I do love some power-up music for fun, a lot of my listening is relaxing music. Either to go to sleep, or to get some work done. (If you prefer to listen, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 222)

According to some studies, listening to classical music can actually increase your IQ…at least temporarily. Somebody came up with the clever term, Mozart effect. And a knucklehead politician in Georgia even came up with a knucklehead idea to propose a budget that made sure every kid in Georgia got a Mozart CD. Yeesh.

Don’t get me wrong. I believe listening to classical music can do way better things for your brain than say…rap, metal, punk, hip-hop, etc. etc. etc. And nothing on pop music stations even remotely compares with the musical strength and emotion of even the most basic Beethoven composition. Nothing! That’s why I say…

Relaxing music can be power music.

These days, you don’t need to use grinding power chords or massive beats to set yourself apart from the crowd. In fact, doing just the opposite might be a much more successful strategy. I call it…going against the flow of the status quo.

When everyone else is yelling and screaming, whisper. If everyone else is zigging, you zag. Every time everyone else turns left, you go right. And you won’t go wrong. So, tonight…when you normally play your favorite songs on your way home…or when you start some music as you’re making dinner…or whatever…try some relaxing music instead. I’m not sayin’ you gotta do this all the time. Just experiment. You might discover you like it so much that it might also work in your advertising. But what do I know? (I know it works, that’s what I know) By the way…

Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox. Make it easy on yourself.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/relaxing-music/feed/0Relaxing Music – it ain’t just for sleepin’ The vast majority of the time I listen to music, these days, … Read the rest...
The vast majority of the time I listen to music, these days, it’s on my iPhone using either my Apple music app or Pandora. While I do love some power-up music for fun, a lot of my listening is relaxing music. Either to go to sleep, or to get some work done. (If you prefer to listen, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast episode 222)
According to some studies, listening to classical music can actually increase your IQ…at least temporarily. Somebody came up with the clever term, Mozart effect. And a knucklehead politician in Georgia even came up with a knucklehead idea to propose a budget that made sure every kid in Georgia got a Mozart CD. Yeesh.
Don’t get me wrong. I believe listening to classical music can do way better things for your brain than say…rap, metal, punk, hip-hop, etc. etc. etc. And nothing on pop music stations even remotely compares with the musical strength and emotion of even the most basic Beethoven composition. Nothing! That’s why I say…
Relaxing music can be power music.
These days, you don’t need to use grinding power chords or massive beats to set yourself apart from the crowd. In fact, doing just the opposite might be a much more successful strategy. I call it…going against the flow of the status quo.
When everyone else is yelling and screaming, whisper. If everyone else is zigging, you zag. Every time everyone else turns left, you go right. And you won’t go wrong. So, tonight…when you normally play your favorite songs on your way home…or when you start some music as you’re making dinner…or whatever…try some relaxing music instead. I’m not sayin’ you gotta do this all the time. Just experiment. You might discover you like it so much that it might also work in your advertising. But what do I know? (I know it works, that’s what I know) By the way…
Jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today and get my words, music, and voice delivered to your inbox. Make it easy on yourself.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean5:47
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Only One Gospel – Rhyme and Reason Podcast 215https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp215/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp215/#respondSun, 20 May 2018 15:09:32 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=18010Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Only One Gospel Will…Make You Ask How Long Till Below are the lyrics to the song in this episode of …Read the rest...

Only One Gospel Will…Make You Ask How Long Till

Below are the lyrics to the song in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. Tune in and discover why it’s important to know there’s only one real Truth for the whole world. And see why if that’s not true, I’m such a big fool.

How Long Till?

How long till we see the vengeance?
How long till You make things right?
Lord, how long till the trumpet blows
And calls us into flight?
How long till we see the Savior?
How long till the end of night?
How long till Your trumpet blows
And takes us out of sight?

We need the Truth! The world doesn’t care.
They can’t see design; though it’s everywhere.
No absolutes, and they’re absolutely sure.
They worship time and bow down to chance.
They give themselves up to circumstance.
I have to say I don’t comprehend the allure.

(repeat chorus)

Our bodies ache; You can hear the groans.
We twist Your words into sticks and stones
And wield them around like giants in a trance.
This posturing while the world looks on
Just makes them ask where our minds have gone,
And I don’t blame them; it’s such a silly dance.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp215/feed/0Only One Gospel Will…Make You Ask How Long Till Below are the lyrics to the song in this episode of … Read the rest...
Below are the lyrics to the song in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast. Tune in and discover why it’s important to know there’s only one real Truth for the whole world. And see why if that’s not true, I’m such a big fool.
How Long Till?
How long till we see the vengeance?

How long till You make things right?

Lord, how long till the trumpet blows

And calls us into flight?

How long till we see the Savior?

How long till the end of night?

How long till Your trumpet blows

And takes us out of sight?
We need the Truth! The world doesn’t care.

They can’t see design; though it’s everywhere.

No absolutes, and they’re absolutely sure.

They worship time and bow down to chance.

They give themselves up to circumstance.

I have to say I don’t comprehend the allure.
(repeat chorus)
Our bodies ache; You can hear the groans.

Here’s the step-by-step formula for how to blend in and not stand out when you advertise. This is a short excerpt from my upcoming book on audio branding. When used properly, it works pretty much 100% of the time. And I suggest you freely share it with all your competitors.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp210/feed/0Here’s the step-by-step formula for how to blend in and not stand out when you advertise. This is a short … Read the rest...
Here’s the step-by-step formula for how to blend in and not stand out when you advertise. This is a short excerpt from my upcoming book on audio branding. When used properly, it works pretty much 100% of the time. And I suggest you freely share it with all your competitors.Subscribe to my Podcast on iTunes – OR Google Play OR Player.fm OR Stitcher

Can poets and writers be action igniters?

In a word…Yes! Words and music have been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. There’s nothing more satisfying than writing a new book, poem, or song, playing it for someone for the first time, and getting a smile or a nod of approval. And I remember how much I loved studying famous poets and writers when I was in high school.

If you prefer to listen, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast Episode 216

About the time I became a junior in high school I started writing poems to market myself to girls. My parents divorced a little before I entered grade school. And my younger brother and I spent school time in Texas and summer time in Kansas. So, I didn’t get to play organized sports…which meant there was no chance of wooing the opposite sex with my prowess on the “field of battle”. What I lacked in sports I made up for with poetry and singing.

It worked like a charm…and more than 3% of the time (hint: that’s an impressive percentage in the marketing world). If only my shyness hadn’t interfered with my follow-through…because I usually had something like a 98% approval rating. I couldn’t reach the coveted 100% mark because…well…nobody’s perfect.

Poets and writers need to eat, too.

A few years after high school I became a professional musician. Yeah, people paid me for live performance. Sometimes a lot…imagine that! And I got paid to play for years until I decided I didn’t want to do it full time anymore. That’s when I returned to my first love…writing. Only this time, I knew I needed something more lucrative than poetry. Fortunately, the internet affords poets and writers some great options for using writing skills to make money.

During my time as an entertainer I started writing and producing radio commercials. Then I learned copywriting, which is simply writing for business, and I’ve been doing both of these for quite a while now. I discovered how poets and writers can use their powers of persuasion and creative insight to ignite readers to take action. And when that action leads to sales, the payoff can be very rewarding.

When you’re ready to ignite some action in your business, look no further than a poet to help. Well, at least no further than the poet you’re reading right now anyway. Get in touch today and get started straightaway. (see what I did there?) Use the form on the side. You’ll even get some great free stuff to get you going. And share with your friends and family by using any of the social media links below.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/poets-and-writers/feed/0Can poets and writers be action igniters? In a word…Yes! Words and music have been at the center of my … Read the rest...
In a word…Yes! Words and music have been at the center of my life for as long as I can remember. There’s nothing more satisfying than writing a new book, poem, or song, playing it for someone for the first time, and getting a smile or a nod of approval. And I remember how much I loved studying famous poets and writers when I was in high school.
If you prefer to listen, here’s the Rhyme and Reason Podcast Episode 216
About the time I became a junior in high school I started writing poems to market myself to girls. My parents divorced a little before I entered grade school. And my younger brother and I spent school time in Texas and summer time in Kansas. So, I didn’t get to play organized sports…which meant there was no chance of wooing the opposite sex with my prowess on the “field of battle”. What I lacked in sports I made up for with poetry and singing.
It worked like a charm…and more than 3% of the time (hint: that’s an impressive percentage in the marketing world). If only my shyness hadn’t interfered with my follow-through…because I usually had something like a 98% approval rating. I couldn’t reach the coveted 100% mark because…well…nobody’s perfect.
Poets and writers need to eat, too.
A few years after high school I became a professional musician. Yeah, people paid me for live performance. Sometimes a lot…imagine that! And I got paid to play for years until I decided I didn’t want to do it full time anymore. That’s when I returned to my first love…writing. Only this time, I knew I needed something more lucrative than poetry. Fortunately, the internet affords poets and writers some great options for using writing skills to make money.
During my time as an entertainer I started writing and producing radio commercials. Then I learned copywriting, which is simply writing for business, and I’ve been doing both of these for quite a while now. I discovered how poets and writers can use their powers of persuasion and creative insight to ignite readers to take action. And when that action leads to sales, the payoff can be very rewarding.
When you’re ready to ignite some action in your business, look no further than a poet to help. Well, at least no further than the poet you’re reading right now anyway. Get in touch today and get started straightaway. (see what I did there?) Use the form on the side. You’ll even get some great free stuff to get you going. And share with your friends and family by using any of the social media links below.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean6:13
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Music affects behavior and the Rhyme and Reason Podcasthttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp209/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp209/#respondFri, 11 May 2018 00:28:25 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=17966Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

It makes a bigger difference than you might think. Match your music and sounds you’re using in your business to …Read the rest...

It makes a bigger difference than you might think. Match your music and sounds you’re using in your business to your brand. Take a giant leap in front of your competition because they’re probably still just playing the radio.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp209/feed/0It makes a bigger difference than you might think. Match your music and sounds you’re using in your business to … Read the rest...
It makes a bigger difference than you might think. Match your music and sounds you’re using in your business to your brand. Take a giant leap in front of your competition because they’re probably still just playing the radio.
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean11:25
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Evolutionary Immunity for you and me – Rhyme and Reason Podcast 208https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp208/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp208/#respondThu, 03 May 2018 22:07:10 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=17923Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

Here are the lyrics to the song I’m featuring in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast… Crazy Mama’s …Read the rest...

Here are the lyrics to the song I’m featuring in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast…

Crazy Mama’s So Mean

That crazy mama’s so mean…
Don’t give me rice with my beans.
I was a fool for those eyes;
Bluer than Mardi Gras skies.
But she’s hidin’ something I ain’t ever seen
That crazy mama’s so mean!

Yeah, That crazy mama’s so mean…
Said she don’t like New Orleans.
Don’t let no bon temps roulle;
She scared the gators away.
Sure, on the outside, she’s shiny and clean, but
That crazy mama’s so mean!

She don’t take no for an answer,
But then again she don’t take yes.
What it would take just to please her
I’m sure is anybody’s guess.

Yeah, That crazy mama’s so mean…
Don’t understand her routine.
Her bark’s as bad as her bite;
Sleep one eye open at night.
Goes from bad to worse;
Don’t get caught in between cause
That crazy mama’s so mean!

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp208/feed/0Here are the lyrics to the song I’m featuring in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast… Crazy Mama’s … Read the rest...
Here are the lyrics to the song I’m featuring in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast…
Crazy Mama’s So Mean
That crazy mama’s so mean…

Immune systems fight more than viruses and bacteria

Did you know even plants and animals have immune systems? They do. And their immune systems work like ours. They’re able to spot an nasty invader like a virus or bacteria and immediately build up defenses against it. And they can even remember details about the attack so they function even faster next time. But imagine if each of those plants and animals would’ve had to wait for evolution to “create” those immune functions.

What would happen to you and your household if you had no defense against invaders? Or if you had only started building your defense strategies when you were attacked? Yeah, you’d probably be destroyed. And the same could be said of the first animals and plants…if they were depending on evolution to form them.

Immune systems have to be preprogrammed.

If those first animals and plants hadn’t already had immune systems in them, they would have been destroyed by the first bacteria, toxin, or virus that came along. And it would have been pretty difficult to build up any other beneficial genetic changes if they were dead, don’t you think? There’s just too much complex genetic information in immune systems for them to have formed slowly, over time, depending on evolutionary changes. It’s just crazy talk (and blind faith in unobservable processes) to think otherwise.

It should be blatantly obvious that in order for species to survive the onslaught of infections their immune systems would have to be in place from the beginning. As I’ve looked at information like that, over the course of my life, I’ve always been thankful and grateful to God for creating the way He did. It makes perfect sense how a living, loving sovereign Creator could build a universe, planets, and stars…and then build creatures who could live and interact.

But it doesn’t make any sense whatsoever to believe everything could have come from nothing. Maybe it’s just my immune system putting up defenses against such nonsense. And if it is, thank God it’s working.

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. Choose one or all of these ways…

Music affects behavior. What’s in your ear?

Music affects how you perceive everyday events and experiences. Music affects behavior, too. (Warning: I’m gonna talk about music, and that’s what I sell, so look out) I’ve talked about it, philosophically, before, but now I’m talking about scientific research. Psychologists, scientists, and ad agencies have conducted studies on everything from marketing to meals. And they’ve discovered some very interesting things about us humans.

Music affects us, and we like it.

Whether it’s listening to classical or new age instrumentals while you work…or rock and pop to pump you up for a road trip…or even some sounds of nature to fall asleep…music makes a huge difference in how much you actually enjoy life.

And just in case you didn’t already know this, music can even help enhance or diminish your dining enjoyment. A Nashville, Tennessee restaurant named “Etch” recently paired certain kinds of music with each course of the meals being served. One diner said he was surprised at how much the music impacted his experience. While he admitted he wasn’t sure if it actually made the food taste better, he WAS sure it improved the evening.

So, of course savvy marketers take information like this and start looking for more ways to use sounds and music to help them sell more food and beverages.

Sound marketing includes sound marketing.

Agencies have discovered that people react favorably to certain sounds. (I’m not surprised, but I’ll talk about that another time) It doesn’t even have to be music. You might have responded to sounds without even realizing it. For example…have you ever been near a produce cooler when suddenly there was a gentle thunder sound and water started spraying the fruits and vegetables? That’s more than a gimmick. A grocer figured out people perceived the produce to be fresher if it seemed like it just rained, so he tried it out. His research showed they often picked up that extra bunch of romaine they hadn’t thought of a few seconds before.

Imagine taking sound experiences like that and inserting your brand name. Combine a short song with the same feel and create much stickier branding without annoying your customers with yet another blah, blah, blah ad.

Since music affects behavior, make sure it fits.

I don’t know how many times I’ve gone into a decent Mexican, Italian, or even Mediterranean restaurant and heard pop radio songs thumping in the background. What a wasted opportunity! It would have served the owners much better (not to mention, their customers…but I will) if they had put together a mix of music that matched their specialties. And if they put more focus on what their customers were listening to, they might even be able to mix in some creative ads for their business. Hey, I’m just a consumer…what do I know?

It makes a bigger difference than you might think. Match your music and sounds you’re using in your business to your brand. Take a giant leap in front of your competition because they’re probably still just playing the radio.

When you’re ready to take your brand to a super sonic level, look no further than Your One-Man-Branding Band – little ol’ me.

Video and Audio – be seen AND heard –

I remember, 20 years ago, when I started working online, how even having a website was a challenge for most businesses. And expensive. There were website design companies sometimes charging tens of thousands of dollars to build a business website. And 99% of them had no video and audio. These days, brand videos are necessary for most small and medium business owners. Video is no longer an option if you want to stay competitive online. Of course, they’re not free…unless you can produce them yourself. And even then, you should consider the time investment before jumping in.

﻿﻿﻿﻿﻿

Video and audio don’t have to be complicated, but they do have to BE.

According to surveys, you’re probably more likely to prefer websites with video over websites with just words and pictures. I know I do. Who wants to browse through endless sites with only text and stock images, when you can watch a video and connect on a deeper level? Those surveys also say video is key to driving conversions. And that means more potential for selling more stuff. Of course, that’s only important if making money is important to you and your business.

The great news is…if you wanna stand out from the crowd online, you still can. Use video and audio. Like I did. Did you watch this message, or just read the article? Yeah, that’s what I thought.

Video marketing statistics agree with me…

One-third of online activity is spent watching video.

More than half of video content is viewed on mobile devices

Audiences engage mostly with videos 2 minutes and under

Landing page videos can increase conversions by 87%

Even though 85% of Facebook videos are watched without sound, if you wanna be seen AND heard AND remembered, go to the next level with a custom commercial song. You’d immediately set yourself apart from video makers who don’t use sound…or have awful sound. I know it’s self-serving for me to mention that, but hey…I’m online to sell stuff too. And I’ve seen the power of deeper connection with a target audience using video AND brand music. And isn’t that what you’re working hard to do? Connect with your clients, customers, or audience in a way they’ll never forget?

You can think it over. But keep in mind…every day lots of other savvy business owners are committing to custom video and audio. Some of them might be your competition.

Everybody’s Got One

Jesse says he wants equality; says we’ve got goals to reach
Jimmy’s war is with iniquity; says he’s got souls to teach
Norma claims that it’s her right to make her own decision
Nancy wildly disagrees; they’re on a one-way collision

Every time you know you’re right
Your opinion’s like a stick of dynamite
And everybody’s got one!

Danny says he wants respect; says he’s got a job to do
But David jabs and pokes his fun; just the same as me and you
Pat declares we all should pay to clean up our environment
And Joan believes it’s federal; so leave it to the government

Every time you know you’re right
Your opinion’s like a stick of dynamite
And everybody’s got one…everybody’s got one

Everybody’s got oneSometimes it’s right, but sometimes we put it in the wrong placeEverybody’s got one
Sometimes we should hold back,And those times we end up with egg on our face
It’s our right, but we’re not always right…not always right,
But everybody’s got one

Scott insists that we evolved; that Darwin proved it years ago
But Tony’s faith is with his God; the Holy Spirit tells him so
And Sue defends the life she leads; calls herself a working girl
But Kathy says she sold her soul, and that’s the problem with the world

Every time you know you’re right,Your opinion’s like a stick of dynamite
And everybody’s got one…everybody’s got one

Opinions can be wrong

If you have any social media accounts, you might have noticed how people don’t seem to be shy about sharing their opinions on just about anything and everything. And a lot of the time their opinions lash out at someone. With expletives, name-calling, and other assorted pleasantries. But it’s important to know opinions can be wrong. So, when you’re about to call somebody out, and you’re about to do it where the whole world can see…be right. And there’s a way to be sure you’re right.

Because opinions can be wrong base yours on truth.

Uh-oh, that’s a sticky point isn’t it. Truth. People will say there’s no way to know what’s true. Of course, that begs the question, “Is that true?” And those same people know better, but they’ve bought into the nonsense in order to avoid responsibility for decisions and commitments.

OK, what’s true? And what truth can you base your opinions on? Well, here’s an example of something that’s true. The sun shows up in the Eastern sky each morning. Never in the Western sky. Here are some more examples of truth. The sun is larger than the moon. It’s hot. It’s far away from the Earth. The earth has dirt, water, and air. Humans breathe air and drink water. I’m just scratching the surface of what’s true. None of those things are my opinion. They’re true.

Now, I could also get into the more philosophical side of truth, and talk about how it comes from the living, loving God of creation. But that’s where people are trying to avoid going when they say truth is negotiable. So, I’ll just say again, opinions can be wrong. And if you care about your fellow human beings…truly care…be sure you’re right. When you stick with Biblical principles, you can’t go wrong. It makes good business sense. Just remember, it’s a way of branding yourself that other people might not like. Are you ready for that?

Walking With the Enemy

I just saw a short video clip of the so-called “leaders” of China and North Korea walking down a long hallway…smiling and talking like good friends. And a couple of thoughts popped into my head immediately. First, don’t we here in America do an awful lot of buying from China? I mean, it seems like 9 out of 10 things I see in just about any store were made in China. That means they’re getting tons and tons and tons of money from us. The second thing that popped into my head was…”Hey! Isn’t that Rocket Man from North Korea? Isn’t he a brat tyrant who murders his own people? And isn’t he our enemy?” Well, why is the so-called “leader” of China walking with the enemy?

Could it be that Xi-Xi and Kimmy aren’t enemies?

Gasp! Say it ain’t so Sam. Ah, but I’m guessing it IS so. Sure, they might not be true fishing buddies. But they’re not exactly enemies either. In their own ways, each of them would just as soon see America be assimilated into their despicable cultures. But since that can’t happen…yet…they’ll satisfy themselves to rake in the money and use it to develop more ways to destroy us from within.

Maybe I’m just crazy for thinking such things. Or am I? Does it make sense to give up what you cannot lose to gain what you cannot keep? Think about that, and see if it applies to the actions in China and North Korea.

Anytime you’re walking with the enemy, you’ll be dealing with temptation, trouble, and tribulation. That applies to your home life, business, family, and friends. Choose wisely.

I remember, when my Dad was in the middle of a nine year battle with kidney failure, he told me most people can expect 5 or less true friends to show up at their funeral. Emphasis on TRUE friends. It was true of his funeral, and I’ve seen a number of others where it was true as well. Just because someone isn’t your true friend doesn’t mean they’re your enemy. But it does mean you have to be cautiously aware at all times.

Walking the enemy isn’t always noticeable at first.

You might decide to compromise on a service you offer. Or you might “forget” to give your customer back their change. It could be something as inconspicuous as saying something false about your competitors. Whatever it is, it’s good to be on guard against it. That way you can ward it off before it happens. But that’s gonna take probably more brain power and willpower than you have on your own. So, what can you do?

Apply Christian principles. Even if you’re not a Christian, you can’t fail when you apply principle from the one person who knows everything about you. Jesus said you should do unto others as you would have them do unto you. And that’s a good rule to live by whether you believe there’s an eternal afterlife or not.

Branding Yourself a Christian

Last week I read an article about business brands. It mentioned how you should seriously consider branding yourself…because if you don’t someone else will. Well, I’ll let you in on a little secret I’ve observed…

Sometimes branding yourself brings out other branding irons.

When you brand yourself a Christian, for example, most people in the world form an immediate opinion and dish out their own brand for you. I’ve been called “arrogant” and “bigoted” and “a nazi” and “ignorant” and “old-fashioned” and many more. Many times those labels (or brands) came from “friends and family”.

Most of the time branding yourself a Christian means losing “friends” and losing to your more “tolerant” competition. At least if you’re not willing to compromise your true, Christian faith. And I’m not.

I know there are still plenty of people (business owners, entrepreneurs) out there who appreciate the Christian values applied to business. Even if they don’t outwardly admit how much they appreciate someone not lying to them or about them. Or working with someone who won’t steal from them. Even if they’re not Christian.

Boost your brand boldly.

So, if you’re a Christian doing business in this more “tolerant” and “accepting” world of ours, don’t be surprised, as you’re branding yourself, when people make fun of or refuse to work with you. In fact, take it as a compliment…a sign that you’re on the right track.

More importantly…you’re on the right team.

Have you been branded?

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. Choose one or all of these ways…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp206/feed/0Tune in to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast, episode 206, with your host, Tony Funderburk. Discover how music is just … Read the rest...
Tune in to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast, episode 206, with your host, Tony Funderburk. Discover how music is just plain good for the brain.

Music and the Brain

Recently I noticed my demeanor wasn’t as cheerful and uplifting as it typically is. And I didn’t like that because it feels good to feel good. You know what I’m talking about, right? You can sense something’s not right, but at first you don’t quite know what it is. Well, not one to mope, I pondered what was different. And “Eureka!” I figured out how much less music I was absorbing. And I know, from experience, music and the brain are a healthy combination.

Music and the brain are like body and the gym.

There’s certainly no shortage of audio, video, and websites talking to you about how important it is to stay physically fit. But guess what’s way more important than your body…yeah, your mind. If your mind ain’t sharp, your six-pack abs ain’t gonna do you all that much good. And the good news is, you can help keep your mind (and soul) sharper by listening to and/or playing music. How cool is that?!

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have been trying to understand how music can have such healthy mental benefits. And they’ve discovered that “music is structural, mathematical, and architectural.” Even better than that, they discovered how music is “based on relationships between one note and the next.” That makes total sense, when you consider how human beings were designed to have relationships. And healthy relationships are good for you.

I’ve written and talked about the power of music before. But I haven’t been following my own advice in the past few months. That’s gonna change. Starting this last week…I added new gear to my recording studio, and I added new software to my computer. But more importantly, I started listening to music with renewed love again. I decided, instead of just writing words about it, I would sing. Listen. Revive.

Guess what? It’s working. Just putting the hands on my music keyboard more, and a little less on my typing keyboard, has already rejuvenated my mind.

The connection between music and the brain is undeniable.

So, my recommendation to you today is to worry less about “what’s in your wallet” and consider what’s in your head. Play some music you don’t normally play and discover how those little relational notes lift you up. I’m gonna go take my own advice right now and play some tunes. What’s your favorite brain-boosting song?

Gotta Say Wow…Can you hear me now?

In this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast I’m sharing a powerfully compelling update on my studio. (tongue-in-cheek) I’m asking the question, “Can you hear me now?” because my whole studio is in a state of transition. I’m also making a video version of this episode, so be sure to tune in on YouTube to watch the awesome, high-tech, stunning special effects version of my update.

The reason I’ve been off my audio and video marks is my MacBook Pro has basically reached the end of its productive days and will need to be put out to pasture. But before I can do that, I have to set up a new way of composing, editing, mixing, and producing audio and video.

It’s not in the budget, at this time, to get an updated MacBook Pro…and I might not be going that way at all anyway. But, as I thought it over, it dawned on me that I have an even more powerful, faster, and updated computer in the house. My iPhone 8! Bam!

Can you hear me now?

I thought to myself (because no one else would have listened to my lunatic rants) “Hey! I can micro-size my studio and use my phone as the hub for all my work.” So, that’s what I’m doing. In fact, I’m writing this post on my phone using my new Bluetooth full-sized keyboard. It works like a charm. And the latest episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast and YouTube video was recorded and mixed entirely on my iPhone setup.

I’ll be working this way for the foreseeable future as an experiment to see if maybe I can run my entire business and production studio on my iPhone. I’m inviting you to join me in the digital journey. And if you have any helpful suggestions or stories to share about something similar you’re trying or have tried, share them with me.

I’ll check back in soon. And here are the lyrics to the song I shared in this podcast episode.

Choose Life

Well you hid your heart in a so-called safe place,
And you locked your love in a big, black box,
And you had no hope,
But you built your brave face,
And you ran your rat race…through the tics and tocs.

Well, the bluebells bloomed in ideal intentions
As you tilled the truth into lifelong lies,
And you dug in deep making many mentions
Of your pretty pensions…always alibis.

You can’t run away from real truth.
And every word of truth is a knife.
A captivating voice might pigeonhole your choice,
Cut free…and choose life.

When your daydreams die and you feel half-hearted,
And your love is lost in a soulless sky,
Try to train your thoughts when your brain’s bombarded
By the stuff you started…learn to love the lie.

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/can-you-hear-me-now/feed/0Gotta Say Wow…Can you hear me now? In this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast I’m sharing a powerfully … Read the rest...
In this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast I’m sharing a powerfully compelling update on my studio. (tongue-in-cheek) I’m asking the question, “Can you hear me now?” because my whole studio is in a state of transition. I’m also making a video version of this episode, so be sure to tune in on YouTube to watch the awesome, high-tech, stunning special effects version of my update.
The reason I’ve been off my audio and video marks is my MacBook Pro has basically reached the end of its productive days and will need to be put out to pasture. But before I can do that, I have to set up a new way of composing, editing, mixing, and producing audio and video.
It’s not in the budget, at this time, to get an updated MacBook Pro…and I might not be going that way at all anyway. But, as I thought it over, it dawned on me that I have an even more powerful, faster, and updated computer in the house. My iPhone 8! Bam!
Can you hear me now?
I thought to myself (because no one else would have listened to my lunatic rants) “Hey! I can micro-size my studio and use my phone as the hub for all my work.” So, that’s what I’m doing. In fact, I’m writing this post on my phone using my new Bluetooth full-sized keyboard. It works like a charm. And the latest episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast and YouTube video was recorded and mixed entirely on my iPhone setup.
I’ll be working this way for the foreseeable future as an experiment to see if maybe I can run my entire business and production studio on my iPhone. I’m inviting you to join me in the digital journey. And if you have any helpful suggestions or stories to share about something similar you’re trying or have tried, share them with me.
I’ll check back in soon. And here are the lyrics to the song I shared in this podcast episode.
Choose Life
Well you hid your heart in a so-called safe place,

And you locked your love in a big, black box,

And you had no hope,

But you built your brave face,

And you ran your rat race…through the tics and tocs.
Well, the bluebells bloomed in ideal intentions

As you tilled the truth into lifelong lies,

And you dug in deep making many mentions

Of your pretty pensions…always alibis.
You can’t run away from real truth.

And every word of truth is a knife.

A captivating voice might pigeonhole your choice,

Cut free…and choose life.
When your daydreams die and you feel half-hearted,

And your love is lost in a soulless sky,

Try to train your thoughts when your brain’s bombarded

By the stuff you started…learn to love the lie.
Choose life…choose life…choose life

Happy Easter Day 2018

Anyone who tells you there is no God is either playing a terrible April Fool’s Day joke on you or is a fool himself. Christians all around the world are celebrating Easter Day today, on April 1, 2018. And there’s only one reason we can celebrate it at all. Jesus.

﻿﻿

The Way

And it came to pass one day on a mountain far away
That a soul was taken and a life forsaken
Because someone had to pay

For the heart of all mankind.There was no untarnished mind.
So one life was spent Who was innocent,
But He left His Word behind…

Forgive them for they know not what they do.
Redeem them and I give My Blood to You.
We can rise upNo matter how much the guilt might weigh.
He said “I am the Way!”

Now so many years have goneAnd we love with blinders on.
How we tolerate is a form of hate.
Where’s the Rock He stood upon?

For the Truth is absolute and it’s foolish to dispute.
It confounds the wise but it opens eyes,
And it saves the destitute

Chorus

Now don’t turn to the left don’t turn to the right.
Just run straight to Him with all your might!

Easter Day is better described as Resurrection Day

It’s the day when Jesus rose from the dead. He showed us how this life on planet earth is only the beginning if we trust in and love Him. You can have an awesome, endless future when you decide to look at the facts and discover you’re not the god you might think you are. All of creation points to a Creator. On this Easter Day go The Way.

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. Choose one or all of these ways…

The more things change, the more they stay the same. And the only thing constant is change. So what does all this have to do with what I’m talking about on this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast? Well, tune in and find out.

Here are the lyrics to the song I shared in this episode, but you’ll have to tune in to hear the song.

Keep It On Hold

I looked around and you; you broke my heart into
Too many times you made me wonder what to do
You rode your horses wild, wild flower-power child
Child you would never let me spend my time with you

You’ve got some good somewhere inside
But you keep it on hold…you keep it on hold
I might believe you if you tried
But you keep it on hold…you keep it on hold

What do you think you’ll do
When it all comes down on you
What do you think you’ll say
At the time of the judgement day
Who do you think you’ll see
When you see things clearer
And it’s only you and the mirror

repeat chorus…inst

You say you don’t need me; me and my sympathy
Sympathy isn’t what my time is all about
I almost have to laugh; laugh at your better half
Half of the time your mind is struggling with the doubt

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp204/feed/0The more things change, the more they stay the same. And the only thing constant is change. So what does … Read the rest...
The more things change, the more they stay the same. And the only thing constant is change. So what does all this have to do with what I’m talking about on this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast? Well, tune in and find out.
Here are the lyrics to the song I shared in this episode, but you’ll have to tune in to hear the song.
Keep It On Hold
I looked around and you; you broke my heart into

Too many times you made me wonder what to do

You rode your horses wild, wild flower-power child

Child you would never let me spend my time with you
You’ve got some good somewhere inside

But you keep it on hold…you keep it on hold

I might believe you if you tried

But you keep it on hold…you keep it on hold
What do you think you’ll do

When it all comes down on you

What do you think you’ll say

At the time of the judgement day

Who do you think you’ll see

When you see things clearer

And it’s only you and the mirror
repeat chorus…inst
You say you don’t need me; me and my sympathy

It’s World Sleep Day so I’ll just keep away

If I hadn’t logged into my Twitter account a few minutes ago, I never would have known it’s World Sleep Day today. Wow. I’ve gotta get with the times. Like a fool, I got up way before dawn without realizing the rest of the world is asleep. What’s a guy like me to do?

I guess there’s nothing I can do about it. You won’t be reading this today anyway. Unless today is actually the day after World Sleep Day…or week after…or whatever. Yeesh. I don’t know how to deal with this. It’s never come up for me before. Does this happen every year? Are you asleep right now and you don’t care?

OK, why fight it? If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. Right? Well, I gotta get in the sleep mood first because I just had my second cup of coffee, and I don’t feel like a true World Sleep Day player yet. So, let’s see…maybe some soothing lyrics…

Yes, my love…I do adore you.
Hear my heart…it’s beating for you.
Private memories we will keep,
But for now…fall fast asleep.
Leave the world and cares behind you.
I’ll make sure they cannot find you.
You’ll be safe in slumber deep…
So for now…fall fast asleep.

Nope, still not asleep.

OK, how about these?

As the fingernail moon
Scratches on the noggin of the sky…
And the stardust turns to sleepdust
In the corner of your eye…
On the top of the hill
You can hear the coyotes cry…
As the world falls asleep
To a cowpoke lullaby.

Oh forget it. Nothin’s workin’. So, I’m gonna go ahead and stay awake for World Sleep Day. That’s OK, I’m not supposed to conform to the world anyway. And I’ll be a day ahead of my competition from now on. Bam!

Want more amazing bits of insight, innovation, and intrigue like this? Then, jump on the one-of-a-kind Rhyme and Reason Bandwagon today.

Smiling is contagious. Are you a carrier?

I was in a downtown office building yesterday, and I noticed something I’ve often noticed but hadn’t thought about for a while. One of the ladies behind one of the many desks had a stressed look on her face as she typed something into her computer and stared at the monitor. At first she didn’t see me. But I quietly got her attention, and when she looked up, I smiled a big smile as I greeted her and asked a question. I saw, once again, how smiling is contagious. The lady almost immediately (and without even realizing it) smiled back. Has that ever happened to you?

Here’s something I wrote about it a few years back, and I think it’s worth repeating. These things go for me, too.

“It seems like, to be a popular singer songwriter these days, you gotta have a story of angst…or survival in the midst of seemingly insurmountable turmoil. Don’t get me wrong…I know the times they are a-ragin’. But I just don’t want to give in to the negative view…the doomsday naysay…no way.

Whatever happened to “grin and bear it”?

Or “let a smile be your umbrella?” Or “smile, though your heart is breaking”?

Well, I think we should bring the old smile-in-the-face-of-adversity spirit back. And you know what? It’s healthier. Trust me. I’m right on this. And health science backs me up. It turns out a smile can lower your heart rate, relieve stress, and evoke positive emotions. If you’re not smiling right now…go ahead…I’ll wait a couple of seconds…

zzzzz….zzzzz….zzzz

OK…now, don’t you feel better already?“

If you’re smiling now, you’re a carrier.

And since smiling is contagious AND it’s so easy to spread, what are you waiting for? Go help somebody lower their heart rate. Or relieve some stress. I’m gonna follow my own advice today. My health could use a boost. And who knows? Maybe I’ll change the course of somebody’s life. Hey…it could happen.

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. Choose one or all of these ways…

In this episode I share how powerful prayer is. And it’s a message I take to heart as I’m dealing with the loss of my little buddy, Zazzo, an amazing Labrador Retriever. He was my closest buddy for a little over 15 years, and he finally had to give up his soul last Saturday. So, prayer is vitally important to me and my wife right now.

Here are the lyrics to the song in this podcast episode. Of course, if you’d like to hear the song, you’ll need to listen to the podcast. Sneaky little devil, ain’t I? But that’s how it works, so check it out without further delay.

Power of the Word

So you’ve been thinking that you’ve got a whole lot to fear
And you keep asking, “What on earth am I doin’ here?”
Well I wouldn’t tell you it’s as gloomy as you’ve heard
You just need the power of the Word

I know you’ve heard that if at first you don’t succeed
Just keep on trying and you’re bound to fill the need
But you don’t believe all that stuff applies to you
And without the power what can you do

Well the power of the Word takes an ordinary bird
And it gives him songs to sing and wings to soar
With the power of the Word even when your vision’s blurred
All your dreams will be fulfilled forevermore

Numbers are crunching and seconds are ticking on
Your hopes are fading until you wonder where they’ve gone
But you wouldn’t worry that your life could be deterred
If you had the power of the Word

Chorus

And if you’re asking, “What’s in it for me?”
Well, give up your soul and I think you will see….
Eternity…eternity…eternity……….

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/rrp203/feed/0In this episode I share how powerful prayer is. And it’s a message I take to heart as I’m dealing … Read the rest...
In this episode I share how powerful prayer is. And it’s a message I take to heart as I’m dealing with the loss of my little buddy, Zazzo, an amazing Labrador Retriever. He was my closest buddy for a little over 15 years, and he finally had to give up his soul last Saturday. So, prayer is vitally important to me and my wife right now.
Here are the lyrics to the song in this podcast episode. Of course, if you’d like to hear the song, you’ll need to listen to the podcast. Sneaky little devil, ain’t I? But that’s how it works, so check it out without further delay.
Power of the Word
So you’ve been thinking that you’ve got a whole lot to fear

And you keep asking, “What on earth am I doin’ here?”

Well I wouldn’t tell you it’s as gloomy as you’ve heard

You just need the power of the Word
I know you’ve heard that if at first you don’t succeed

Just keep on trying and you’re bound to fill the need

But you don’t believe all that stuff applies to you

And without the power what can you do
Well the power of the Word takes an ordinary bird

And it gives him songs to sing and wings to soar

With the power of the Word even when your vision’s blurred

All your dreams will be fulfilled forevermore
Numbers are crunching and seconds are ticking on

Your hopes are fading until you wonder where they’ve gone

But you wouldn’t worry that your life could be deterred

If you had the power of the Word
Chorus
And if you’re asking, “What’s in it for me?”

Subscribe to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast and make it easy to get each episode delivered right to you. Like this…
Stay tuned,]]>Tony Funderburkclean18:41
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Zazzo the Wonder Dog has left me in a foghttps://www.tonyfunderburk.com/zazzo/
https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/zazzo/#respondMon, 12 Mar 2018 16:30:00 +0000https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/?p=17644Tony Funderburk - Rhyme and Reason author, singer songwriter, podcaster, youtuber

My best little buddy died this past Saturday morning. And I can’t even convey how big a loss it is …Read the rest...

My best little buddy died this past Saturday morning. And I can’t even convey how big a loss it is to my heart. We were greatly blessed to have this guy’s life be a part of ours for a little over 15 years.

Zazzo defied the odds from the start. He was the runt of the litter. When we went to the farm in a little town in Colorado to buy a dog, I could see no one there wanted him. He wasn’t the classic, roly-poly, and chubby Labrador Retriever you always see in ads and commercials. His eyes looked sickly, and he was much smaller than his 8 brothers and sisters.

But I noticed he was barking for attention and could basically leap-frog over his siblings. He had determination and a spark for life I didn’t see in the others. I couldn’t resist, so I talked my wife into agreeing to get him.

And what a choice! He eventually grew to be quite a champ. That’s what I always called him…in addition to Zazzo. He actually grew a bit larger and much more muscular than his brother Nestlē (who died 4 months ago).

And Zazzo was a world-class retriever. Where we used to live had a fairly deep ravine behind the house. I could throw a ball or Frisbee across the ravine, and he could run down one side, up the other side, and catch the Frisbee in the air or the ball on one bounce. He’d play the game as long as I would…and ask for more. And he was that way for the first 10 years of his life.

Because he was a runt, from the beginning he struggled with swallowing. We had to grind up his food and mix it with yogurt when he was a puppy. And for is whole life we had to give him his food in small portions, wait for him to swallow, and continue that process till he was full.

About a month ago, Zazzo became unable to stand up on his own anymore. But he was still full of life and would bark incessantly if we were in the house with him but out of sight. We’d take him and his bedding into whatever room we were in and move him back when we went to another room. And I carried him out and held him up as he went to the bathroom…at least 4 times a day.

Then…last Wednesday I carried Zazzo out to go to the bathroom, and when he was finished, his whole body slumped over. I quickly carried him back inside, and he just plopped down on his bed unable to raise up. Just going outside completely wore him out.

I texted my wife at work to tell her to ask for her earned time off and to be ready because I was coming to pick her up. From Wednesday evening until Saturday morning, we took turns for 24 hours a day care. To begin with, we’d turn Zazzo over about every hour or so when he’d whine or whimper. Before long he refused food. So, we took a syringe and squeezed water and bone broth into his mouth…which he seemed to gladly slurp up. After a while we needed to help our boy change positions about every half hour. Then it was about every 10 to 20 minutes.

On Saturday morning I had an appointment for work, and then I went to get Zazzo some medicine to ease his stomach discomfort. Unfortunately, he died before I made it home. But fortunately he died in Elgielene’s arms. I thank God Zazzo got to die of old age, natural causes. He’s at rest now, and I miss him more than my puny words can convey.

Sorry for the long-winded explanation, but I had to express it to help get through it. Thank you for your prayers.

Feeling sluggish…run-down?
You might need a nitric oxide booster.

I’m just talking to myself here, so if you’re not interested in developing healthy habits, you might as well tune out now. Everybody gone yet? Good. Now I can give myself a good talking to. Hey Tony…If only you could give yourself a shot that would boost your energy and no needles were required. And no yucky tasting liquids or pills either? Wouldn’t that be great? Well, you don’t have to imagine because you’re designed to be able to do that. (you should’ve guessed as much) And all it takes is for you to put down your computer or smartphone or whatever you’re writing and reading this on and get up and go for a walk. Yeah, you can give yourself a nitric oxide booster shot with a 30 minute walk. Sound good? Great, ’cause there’s more…

What exactly IS a nitric oxide booster?

OK…before I start getting off my comfortable couch and moving my backside around, it would be a good idea to find out what a nitric oxide booster is. Right? I promise, Tony…it’s not gonna hurt. And you’ll thank me later. But to help you out, and keep it unscientific so you won’t doze off, let’s just say your body stores its own medicine inside the lining of your arteries. And the medicine doesn’t come with tamper-proof tops…so it’s easy to open and use.

That lining of the arteries is called the endothelium. But like I said, I don’t wanna get too scientific, so we’ll just call it the lining of your arteries. And in that lining your body contains chemicals designed just for you to help you heal and stay well. (talk about great design!) So, how do you open up the medicine and let it work its magic? Here’s how…

You gotta move!

When you move, your body produces nitric oxide. And nitric oxide moving quickly through your veins and arteries is what opens up the medicine in the lining (endothelium). And your body is designed to know what works best for you. Unlike pharmaceuticals which typically have more side effects than benefits. (you remember those from years ago, right Tony?) The way to get your nitric oxide booster is to boost yourself through a 30 minute walk…or lift some weights…or swim, ski, bike, etc. etc. etc.

The point is…movement gets the nitric oxide moving. Coincidence? Hardly. Awesome design in a complex structure? You betcha! Somebody went to all the trouble to give your body the ability to heal itself, Tony. Why not take advantage of it? Especially when all it takes is to get up and move. (update…walked 2 miles with my wife this morning, and I could practically feel those natural medicines pouring into my bloodstream)

Well, I’ve got myself motivated. If there’s anyone else eavesdropping on this conversation, how about you? Gonna move around more today?

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. Join the ultra secret Rhyme and Reason Ring
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You’ll never be bored in the house of the Lord

You and I are mortal. And physical. So, we understand physical and material structure. We can wrap our minds around the image of a house. That’s why, in the Bible, King David wrote about the house of the Lord when he said he was looking for his heart’s desire. David knew talking about where God lives would be too difficult to describe in spiritual terms. So, he said he wanted to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of his life. He understood how perfect and beautiful that would be.

I’ve heard people say they couldn’t stand living in a perfect place forever because it would be boring. How ridiculous. By definition, perfect means there’d be absolutely nothing wrong with it. You won’t be bored in the house of the Lord because you’ll always have challenging, interesting, and wonderful things to do, learn, and enjoy.

Of course, the people who say they’d be bored living in Heaven are just using that as another reason to rebel against God. They find any excuse they can why He’s not the answer to all their pain and misery. Why dwell in the house of the Lord when you can build your own mansion right here and now. Right? Just one problem with that. Your mansion on earth could still be here when you die. And what then?

Live in a perfect house, rent-free, forever.

Sounds like a real estate ad, doesn’t it? But I’m talking about a REAL ESTATE. No mortgage payments. Or rent payments. No payments, period. Because it’s paid up and paid off…by the builder. How cool is that?! And just imagine…living in a place that never needs new paint. The plumbing doesn’t leak. No utility bills. You’ll never have to worry about those things again. Ever!

What would that be worth to you? Would you be willing to give up being your own god and savior? Or do you believe you can make your own place that lasts forever? Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m willing to admit I’m not God. I don’t want that responsibility. And I certainly have no idea how to make life last forever. That’s why I trust in the mountains of evidence pointing to the One, True, Living, Loving Creator of Heaven and Earth. When it comes to picking the perfect place to live, I choose the House of the Lord. Will you be coming for a visit? Or will you be coming to live?

(Be sure to listen to the Rhyme and Reason Podcast to hear the song)

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

Music for business is necessary AND powerful

Can your business afford to ignore a marketing strategy that customers and clients actually enjoy? If you own a business, you need music. I know it sounds wacky to say you need it. But you do. And that even goes for online businesses focused mainly on selling stuff on Amazon. I’ll get back to that and show you what I mean. For now, I want you to understand how music for business is necessary AND powerful.

If you do an online search for the term “music for business”, you’ll see mostly results talking about streaming music services for business. And that’s not what I’m talking about. Those services are OK, but they merely help set a mood and everybody and his pet duck are doing something like that in their brick and mortar business. That’s music for customers and ambience.

Music for business should help you establish your brand.

You’ll hear marketers say over and over how you need to “get in your customer’s head”. And guaranteed, nothing does that better than customized commercial songs. I still remember commercial songs from years ago when I was a kid. I bet you do too. You can probably hear the tune, remember the words, and visualize something about the products that went with those songs. Right?

Imagine how much more your business will stand out from the crowd when your brand is stuck in your customer’s head. It’s not just a phone number, or a website, another one of the billions of pictures on sites like Pinterest, Facebook, and Instagram. Those all become an endless blur. But music customized for your business can get even your competitors humming your tune. And that’s powerful!

Even if your business is selling stuff on Amazon or eBay, you can use music to stand out. The vast majority of online businesses don’t focus on music as a marketing strategy. It’s always an afterthought or not even on the radar. So, when you do, you can sell something other business owners need and your competition is missing.

Music for business is powerful because music is universal.

I know you’ve heard that music is the international language. Why not speak that language and reap the benefits of better brand retention? Like I said…can your business afford to ignore such an effective strategy? If so, I’d like to hear your reasons why. Leave a comment and share them with me.

Stay tuned,

P.S. Share the rhymes and reasons with your friends and family. And let’s stay connected. Like this…

Doing good deeds is like planting seeds

Something good could grow out of doing good deeds. Then again, there might be some unforeseen circumstances come along and all your time spent planting seeds could be washed away. But bad weather can’t wash away the euphoria you can get by helping others. I wrote an article about charitable deeds a while back. And I’m sharing it again in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast.

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/planting-seeds/feed/0Doing good deeds is like planting seeds Something good could grow out of doing good deeds. Then again, there might … Read the rest...
Something good could grow out of doing good deeds. Then again, there might be some unforeseen circumstances come along and all your time spent planting seeds could be washed away. But bad weather can’t wash away the euphoria you can get by helping others. I wrote an article about charitable deeds a while back. And I’m sharing it again in this episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast.

Oh lovely, gold leaf Aspen tree,
for life you can depend on me.

I’m not a treehugger so why in the world would I be talking to a tree? I’m glad you asked. Because the largest living organism on the planet depends on me (and you) for life. And that’s another beautiful reason why creation is the best explanation for how we all got here. When I say you can depend on me, I’m talking about what some scientists call “symbiotic relationships“. Those are relationships where both sides depend on each other for their very existence. It’s so cool how much you can easily observe this in our world…if you’re willing to see.

Symbiosis, not osmosis.

The Hollies had a line in one of their popular songs that said “All I need is the air that I breathe.” And if you’ve ever felt that way about anyone or anything, you can thank a tree. Of course, at the same time, the tree should thank you for exhaling. That’s because we exhale carbon dioxide, and trees (and plant life in general) need carbon dioxide to thrive. At the same time, trees, and the rest of the plant kingdom, produce oxygen after taking in carbon dioxide. See? We need plants, and they need us. So, we must have all been created at about the same time.

Still not convinced? Want another example of symbiotic relationships? OK. How about honeybees? I love honeybees…because they’re cute little creatures who stay busy all day gathering pollen from flowers just to make the sweetener for my coffee. How thoughtful.

Pollen-bearing plants need honeybees. And honeybees need those plants…and other bees. The queen bee, worker bees, and drones all need each other. If any one of them had evolved without the other, they wouldn’t have been able to survive. Creation explains and clarifies their existence. Evolution doesn’t.

You can depend on me honeybee and Aspen tree…and thee.

I’m gonna keep on sharing the story of how creation beautifully explains our existence and how everything makes so much sense. It’s all because we had a common designer. Not a common ancestor. Jesus made you. He’s logical, sensible, personal, reasonable, and loving. It makes so much more sense to believe in being designed by someone like that than simply popping up out of slime. Being designed inspires trust and hope. Mutating into existence doesn’t.

If you’ve never considered how we all got here…or if you’ve always believed life happened just by chance…I encourage you to look into it more. And if you’d rather not take the Bible’s word for it, then look at it scientifically. Not some regurgitated philosophical nonsense by fools like Richard Dawkins or Stephen Hawking. Real science. And if you do actually look into it and still disagree, write to me and tell me why.

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

Got myself a cold so I’m playing something old

This episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast is a little bit of a rerun. Or should I say reruns? Whatever. The point is…my voice sounds awful because I have a cold. So, I’m playing something old. Some older podcast episodes where I talked to kids. I hope you’ll forgive the rerun and tune in. There are some valuable nuggets for kids. I promise.

Share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/playing-something-old/feed/0Got myself a cold so I’m playing something old This episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast is a little … Read the rest...
This episode of the Rhyme and Reason Podcast is a little bit of a rerun. Or should I say reruns? Whatever. The point is…my voice sounds awful because I have a cold. So, I’m playing something old. Some older podcast episodes where I talked to kids. I hope you’ll forgive the rerun and tune in. There are some valuable nuggets for kids. I promise.

Have you ever pondered the wonder of music?

I don’t mean thinking about the notes or the beat or the even the instrumentation. I mean have you truly pondered the unimaginable, inextricable, undeniable force, the gift, and the wonder of music?

(To ponder: to weigh carefully in the mind; consider thoughtfully: He pondered his next words thoroughly.)

Think about what music is…

It’s intangible.

It’s really indefinable.

It has no shape, yet it shapes thoughts.

It has no function of its own, yet somehow helps us function

Music has the power to stir emotions…

…And of its own accord can’t fulfill any of them. It isn’t necessary to perform our daily duties, but how many places of business do you find with no music. I certainly don’t remember many. Music can’t comb your hair, brush your teeth, or tie your shoes. But it can ease you through those mundane tasks and make you forget about the time.

You don’t need words to enjoy music. Or status. You don’t even need people around. It isn’t poured from a bottle, shaken from a cannister, or even dolloped from a 5 gallon bucket. Still; it can be as refreshing as champagne, spicy as cayenne, and rich and decadent as “gold ring homemade vanilla” ice cream. (I hope you’ll pardon that last reference to a delicious ice cream from Texas)

Music appeals to fewer than our five senses.

But it also appeals to more than our senses. When you study musical structure, it makes perfect logical sense. But when you try to explain why it “moved” you, very often you can’t quite convey it satisfactorily.

It wasn’t because it smelled, tasted, felt, sounded, or looked so good. It was what it did to your cerebral cortex. Or maybe it hit you in the “gut”, but it didn’t actually hit you, and it wasn’t actually your “gut”. See what I mean? You can’t put your finger on it. In fact you can’t touch it at all. You just know. You know?

Why in the world am I going on and on about the wonder of music? Thanks for asking.

Music is an almost perfect way to ingrain an idea into the mind. Because without exception there has always been this common chord. (like my musical metaphor?) People love music! No surprise… It’s extremely versatile, dependable, believable, and yet inexplicable.

As a singer songwriter I take the same octave countless other musicans use and create my little piece of semi-immortality to satisfy…what? Me? An audience? A paycheck? All of the above? None of the above? The answer is yes to all the questions. I’ve written songs for each of those purposes. And each one was satisfying in its own way because each one involved the intangible little friend of mine. I’m not sure why I’m so moved by this unseen companion, but I do know this:

Music is a gift from God.

It, and your thoughts, can never be stolen from you, forced out of you, or driven away from you…as long as you want it; you’ve got it. How incredible is such a gift. Yeah, we could live without music, but…

It wouldn’t be nearly as joyous an existence.

Stay tuned,

P.S. Your support for my Words and Music means the world to me. Please share them with others. Here’s how…

It matters who you’re faithful and true to.

I know my 10th grade English teacher would correct me on that sentence. But I said it that way to make a point. Of course, it’s just good sense to be faithful and true to your family and friends, as long as they return the favor. But can any of them keep you safe? Not really.

The key word in the question I just asked is “keep”. We have a nation and a world of laws. And none of them can keep you safe…even the ones designed to do that very thing. At best they’ll keep you safer than not having them. But it’s only for the short term…the days you’re alive on the planet. And if you believe, like I do, there’s more to life than a few decades on the planet, it’s worth looking into a more long-term security plan.

Being faithful and true to God is the best insurance plan.

When you’re looking to buy insurance, whether it’s for your car, your home, or your health, you want the best bang for your bucks. Right? And that’s exactly how you should look at it. But every policy you buy is for a limited time. Sometimes it’s your entire adult life. Other times it’s for only a few months, weeks, or even days. But insurance policies only last as long as you keep paying.

The one insurance plan that never expires is totally unique because you don’t pay for it. In fact, you couldn’t pay for it if you were the richest person on earth. God’s insurance plan is for you to have eternal life. And Jesus paid up your premiums forever. But there’s a catch. A-ha! You knew there had to be a catch…right?

The catch is…you gotta ask for it.

Yeah, God has been advertising His insurance plan for thousands of years. He’s been faithful and true to His word, and every person who ever asked to be added to the plan has received it free of charge. But guess what. Most people have turned down the offer. Can you imagine?! I mean, c’mon…who doesn’t like FREE?

But I guess it goes back to that “catch” I mentioned. You gotta ask for it. And asking for God’s insurance plan means admitting you’re basically a jerk and that you’ve hurt others and hurt yourself…and that you’re sorry for what you’ve done. And most people don’t want to do that. Their pride gets in the way.

Don’t let pride keep you from the prize.

In my life I’ve done some pretty amazing things. And I’ve done some awful things. I’ve been a great guy. And I’ve been a great failure. Even if all the amazing things I’ve done outnumbered the awful things, they wouldn’t be enough to buy me one day in Heaven. And yet I know I’ll enjoy time without end there because I’ve been willing to admit I’ve hurt others and myself. You wanna know a dirty, little secret? I haven’t even been faithful and true to God all the days of my life. But I guarantee He’s been faithful and true to me. How do I know?

Because God’s word is alive and true and it lives in me. And it springs up in me to let me know I’m doing the right thing…or the wrong thing. It’s so cool how that works. Jesus said it would be that way, and just like every other thing He said…it’s true. He’s faithful to those who are faithful to Him. And He’ll keep you safe forever, if you ask Him to. Like I said, it’s free. What do you have to lose…but your soul?

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

Here’s a slap in the face from a Heavenly place

God is love. Right? But is that all God is? No! He’s infinitely more. I’m confident He’s able to feel so much more than love and so much more than any of us. His different emotions are clearly seen in the Bible. And would you believe it? A couple of the emotions, less stressed in churches today, are hatred and anger. In fact, when you read His book, you might be surprised to see He’s even willing to deliver a severe slap in the face to His enemies. And not out of love. If you prefer to listen instead of read, here’s the podcast audio.

When God slaps you, don’t be surprised if you end up with a few broken teeth. After all, He’s God. He created the heavens, the earth, all the sun, moon, and stars in the universe just by speaking them into existence. It wouldn’t take much action from Him to smack you down.

But here’s how to avoid that kind of slap in the face:

Trust God. Believe in Jesus, and accept the gift of Grace He bought and paid for with His life. Your eternal salvation is that easy to get. Because God loves you He’s made a way to save you from the troubles of this world. Not all of them all of the time in the here and now. But you won’t have to endure them forever. The same can’t be said for enemies of God. As He helps his troubled people, He also punishes His enemies.

Don’t be one of them. And don’t wait another day to change the course of your eternity. Ask God to forgive you, correct you, and help you think His thoughts after Him…instead of your own.

Here are the lyrics to the song I’m sharing on the podcast version of this blog post. I want you to know I’m pulling for you. And I know you want the best life has to offer. So, how about eternal life?

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/slap-in-the-face/feed/0Here’s a slap in the face from a Heavenly place God is love. Right? But is that all God is? … Read the rest...
God is love. Right? But is that all God is? No! He’s infinitely more. I’m confident He’s able to feel so much more than love and so much more than any of us. His different emotions are clearly seen in the Bible. And would you believe it? A couple of the emotions, less stressed in churches today, are hatred and anger. In fact, when you read His book, you might be surprised to see He’s even willing to deliver a severe slap in the face to His enemies. And not out of love. If you prefer to listen instead of read, here’s the podcast audio.
When God slaps you, don’t be surprised if you end up with a few broken teeth. After all, He’s God. He created the heavens, the earth, all the sun, moon, and stars in the universe just by speaking them into existence. It wouldn’t take much action from Him to smack you down.
But here’s how to avoid that kind of slap in the face:
Trust God. Believe in Jesus, and accept the gift of Grace He bought and paid for with His life. Your eternal salvation is that easy to get. Because God loves you He’s made a way to save you from the troubles of this world. Not all of them all of the time in the here and now. But you won’t have to endure them forever. The same can’t be said for enemies of God. As He helps his troubled people, He also punishes His enemies.
Don’t be one of them. And don’t wait another day to change the course of your eternity. Ask God to forgive you, correct you, and help you think His thoughts after Him…instead of your own.
Here are the lyrics to the song I’m sharing on the podcast version of this blog post. I want you to know I’m pulling for you. And I know you want the best life has to offer. So, how about eternal life?

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…
Join the ultra secret Rhyme and Reason Ring

If praising God makes me odd, then I’ll be odd.

I don’t mind being called odd for doing something I know beyond a shadow of a doubt is the right thing to do. One of the best indicators of whether what I’m doing is right or not is if most of the other people on the planet aren’t doing it. And you can bet most of the other people on the planet aren’t praising God. Not the one true, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth anyway. (Click the player if you prefer to listen rather than read the rest of this)

Praising God makes total sense, when you actually think about it.

When your mom or dad or son or daughter or brother or sister do something right, you wanna give them a pat on the back. Or an “attaboy”. Right? You wanna brag on them. Tell anyone who’ll listen how awesome they are…and how you’re connected. It’s only natural. After all, everybody loves a winner.

Well, what makes it OK to praise people but odd to praise the people maker? Like I said, when you actually think about it, a Creator actually does exist, or absolutely nothing makes sense…or truly matters. If there is no Creator God, and if we all got here by some random accident, then praising God DOES make you odd. After all, if the God I’m talking about doesn’t exist, what an incredible waste of time to even write what I’m writing right now.

Think about how you got here and reverse engineer the process.

If your parents chromosomes hadn’t mixed together the way they did, you wouldn’t be here. Surely you can agree with that. OK. Then, how did your parents get here? The same way…right? But how did their parents get here? And their parents’ parents? And so on, and so on, and so on. Eventually you have to go back to the original two people. Yes, there had to be two to start with.

So where did those first two come from? I believe (and evidence backs me up) those first two people were custom made by the ultimate people maker…God. And if I’m right (and I am) then all other assertions are wrong. Of course, if I’m wrong (and I’m not) then anything goes. If you wanna say we all got here by chance, or you wanna say aliens seeded the planet with human spores, or you prefer to say the flying spaghetti monster sprinkled us here like parmesan cheese, your explanation is as good as anybody else’s.

Since human design is so complicated I say there has to be a Designer.

Because we’re designed by a thinking, feeling Creator, we can think, feel, and be creative. Things make sense because God is superbly sensible. He’s logical and reasonable, and He loves us enough to make an amazing planet and ecosystem for us to enjoy and thrive. So, that makes me wanna praise Him. And the way you’ll see me praising God the most is with my voice, keyboards, percussion, and other instruments. With songs of praise and gratitude. If that makes me odd, then so be it. Are you ready to be odd with me?

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/praising-god/feed/0If praising God makes me odd, then I’ll be odd. I don’t mind being called odd for doing something I … Read the rest...
I don’t mind being called odd for doing something I know beyond a shadow of a doubt is the right thing to do. One of the best indicators of whether what I’m doing is right or not is if most of the other people on the planet aren’t doing it. And you can bet most of the other people on the planet aren’t praising God. Not the one true, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth anyway. (Click the player if you prefer to listen rather than read the rest of this)
Praising God makes total sense, when you actually think about it.
When your mom or dad or son or daughter or brother or sister do something right, you wanna give them a pat on the back. Or an “attaboy”. Right? You wanna brag on them. Tell anyone who’ll listen how awesome they are…and how you’re connected. It’s only natural. After all, everybody loves a winner.
Well, what makes it OK to praise people but odd to praise the people maker? Like I said, when you actually think about it, a Creator actually does exist, or absolutely nothing makes sense…or truly matters. If there is no Creator God, and if we all got here by some random accident, then praising God DOES make you odd. After all, if the God I’m talking about doesn’t exist, what an incredible waste of time to even write what I’m writing right now.
Think about how you got here and reverse engineer the process.
If your parents chromosomes hadn’t mixed together the way they did, you wouldn’t be here. Surely you can agree with that. OK. Then, how did your parents get here? The same way…right? But how did their parents get here? And their parents’ parents? And so on, and so on, and so on. Eventually you have to go back to the original two people. Yes, there had to be two to start with.
So where did those first two come from? I believe (and evidence backs me up) those first two people were custom made by the ultimate people maker…God. And if I’m right (and I am) then all other assertions are wrong. Of course, if I’m wrong (and I’m not) then anything goes. If you wanna say we all got here by chance, or you wanna say aliens seeded the planet with human spores, or you prefer to say the flying spaghetti monster sprinkled us here like parmesan cheese, your explanation is as good as anybody else’s.
Since human design is so complicated I say there has to be a Designer.
Because we’re designed by a thinking, feeling Creator, we can think, feel, and be creative. Things make sense because God is superbly sensible. He’s logical and reasonable, and He loves us enough to make an amazing planet and ecosystem for us to enjoy and thrive. So, that makes me wanna praise Him. And the way you’ll see me praising God the most is with my voice, keyboards, percussion, and other instruments. With songs of praise and gratitude. If that makes me odd, then so be it. Are you ready to be odd with me?

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…
Join my Rhyme and Reason Club

Are you on the winning team?

Or are you hanging with losers? This is bigger than your weekend softball team. Or school sports or even pro sports. If you’ve ever played sports of any kind, I know you remember how much more fun it was to be on the winning team. Right? Of course, it’s good to be a gracious loser, because no team wins 100% of the time. But it’s so much better to be a winner. And that’s even way more important in your “real life”. (Click on the player, below, to listen to this message…and a song.) Or read on…

A man named David talked about the winning team that outlasts them all.

He said all the nations of the earth will eventually belong to one person. In fact, all “the ends of the earth” will belong to one person. If you’ve read much history, you might think that would be a bad thing. After all, every time one person tried to conquer the whole world, they turned out to be power-hungry, greedy, selfish, tyrants. Alexander, Napoleon, Hitler, Stalin…they all wanted to be top dog. But they were all mad dogs. And they all ended up losing. First their status, then their power, and finally (most likely) their eternal souls.

If you follow someone like that, or trust in someone like that, you stand a good chance of sharing their dark fate. But the One David talked about, when he said all the ends of the earth would be His possession, is not like that. Never was. Never will be. What makes Him so different? In a word…

Love.

Show me a ruler, or leader, or king who is willing to die for his people rather than making them die for him. And I’ll show you someone who can (and will) put together a winning team. And, in this case, I’m talking about THE winning team. The ones who ran the race to get the prize of eternal life through the gracious gift of the one, true, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Wouldn’t you rather be on the winning team with forever fruits of victory?

Why miss out on all that awesome time without end? Imagine how much you can do with endless time. No more death and decay. No more destructive forces. Believe me, you don’t deserve this break. Neither do I. No one does. But, thankfully, the winning team of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit loves you (and me) enough to make the Way for us to join.

The winning team never runs out of steam,
And you’re a member when you trust
In the one who died and was glorified
To redeem all of us from dust. ~TF

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/the-winning-team/feed/0Are you on the winning team? Or are you hanging with losers? This is bigger than your weekend softball team. … Read the rest...
Or are you hanging with losers? This is bigger than your weekend softball team. Or school sports or even pro sports. If you’ve ever played sports of any kind, I know you remember how much more fun it was to be on the winning team. Right? Of course, it’s good to be a gracious loser, because no team wins 100% of the time. But it’s so much better to be a winner. And that’s even way more important in your “real life”. (Click on the player, below, to listen to this message…and a song.) Or read on…
A man named David talked about the winning team that outlasts them all.
He said all the nations of the earth will eventually belong to one person. In fact, all “the ends of the earth” will belong to one person. If you’ve read much history, you might think that would be a bad thing. After all, every time one person tried to conquer the whole world, they turned out to be power-hungry, greedy, selfish, tyrants. Alexander, Napoleon, Hitler, Stalin…they all wanted to be top dog. But they were all mad dogs. And they all ended up losing. First their status, then their power, and finally (most likely) their eternal souls.
If you follow someone like that, or trust in someone like that, you stand a good chance of sharing their dark fate. But the One David talked about, when he said all the ends of the earth would be His possession, is not like that. Never was. Never will be. What makes Him so different? In a word…
Love.
Show me a ruler, or leader, or king who is willing to die for his people rather than making them die for him. And I’ll show you someone who can (and will) put together a winning team. And, in this case, I’m talking about THE winning team. The ones who ran the race to get the prize of eternal life through the gracious gift of the one, true, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth.
Wouldn’t you rather be on the winning team with forever fruits of victory?
Why miss out on all that awesome time without end? Imagine how much you can do with endless time. No more death and decay. No more destructive forces. Believe me, you don’t deserve this break. Neither do I. No one does. But, thankfully, the winning team of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit loves you (and me) enough to make the Way for us to join.
The winning team never runs out of steam,

And you’re a member when you trust

In the one who died and was glorified

To redeem all of us from dust. ~TF

If you believe there’s a rhyme and reason to life, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…
Join my Rhyme and Reason Club

Perish the thought. I’m tellin’ you what.

If you think you can choose the dark side of life and good things will happen, perish the thought. It ain’t true. And it will never be true. Even if you get away with living on the dark side your whole life, what do you suppose happens then? If you’re not sure, is it worth a possible eternal life to bet your whole life here on earth? And I’ll let you in on a little secret. When I said “possible eternal life”…I meant definite eternal life. It’s a sure thing for those who shun the dark side in favor of the one true, living, loving Creator of Heaven and Earth.

Think about what you might be giving up.

If you’re not 100 percent sure what happens when you die, then here’s something to chew on for a bit. I might be right. You might actually have a shot at living forever. Of course, when I used the word “might” in those last two, short sentences, I meant “AM” and “WILL”. Yeah, I’m 100 percent sure there’s a God in Heaven who created all of the universe and every living thing in it. And I’m absolutely sure He made a way for every human being to live forever. He wrote a how-to book on the subject, and the evidence for its authenticity is almost beyond comprehension.

In that how-to book you’ll discover who amazingly simple it is to live forever. You could call it a one step program. That one step is…believe. Believe in Jesus, who was and is God, came to Earth as a sacrifice to God for all the bad things you and I will ever do. And when you do, His Spirit will live in you, and you’ll live forever. You’ll live through time without end in paradise. Why would you ever wanna risk losing that?

If you believe you can make your own Heaven, perish the thought.

You can’t trust everybody you meet. Even your own family members will betray you. This world is not a nice place. If you think it is, it’s time to take off the rose-colored glasses, have a strong cup of coffee, and wake up to reality. And NO, you don’t get to use the tired, old, worn-out phrase “your world is what you make of it”. First off, you’re not the only one in the world. Secondly, you’re not the ruler of this world. And finally, billions of other people would rather see you dead. Ouch! I know that’s harsh. But it’s true.

Ironically, we all end up taking the same long nap in the ground. The difference is…most go there believing it’s the last place they’ll be. But it’s not. You see, it’s like this…God created us. And He creates eternal souls because He’s eternal. So, your soul will either live forever or merely exist forever. And your choice, now, will determine whether that will be terrific or terrible.

Think it over today and choose wisely.

If you believe your life is awesome and couldn’t possibly get better, please reconsider today. Or if you think your life is horrible and couldn’t possibly get any worse, I urge you to look into God’s how-to book.

You can’t walk with the wicked and win.
Or stand with the sinners in sin.
You don’t have to lose, but you have to choose.
Today is the day to begin. ~ Tony Funderburk

If you believe life makes sense, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

Men and women are different,
so you’re not an accident.

You might look around and think the world has gone mad when it comes to genders. Or then again, you might think it’s only beginning to make sense. (you’d be wrong, of course) But here’s something you can’t argue against, successfully…at least not if you wanna face facts and not just feelings: Men and women are different. And because they are you have yet another big dose of evidence against life on planet earth magically appearing from non-life. (if you’d like to listen to the rest of this instead of reading…)

It’s amazing when you think about how the sexual reproduction systems in men and women are different, but they appear to be so made for each other. Of course, that’s a little bit tongue-in-cheek because they don’t simply appear to be made for each other…they’re perfectly made for each other. But just imagine millions and millions of years ago (and that of course always requires imagination) when the separate reproduction systems were said to have been “evolving”. It takes a whole lotta heaps of imagination to conjure up how two radically different, yet highly compatible, systems could time their evolution so well. Just think about a few compatibility issues:

Physical

Chemical

Emotional

Environmental

Accidental

And not only men and women are different.

The reproduction systems in the male and female of all the other species had to have been simultaneously evolving at the same (or similar) rate and speed, too. And then there are the plants. Don’t get me started. You can boil it down to this…timing. If one or the other…male or female…of the reproduction systems had been off only a little, that species would quickly become extinct. The number of miraculous accidents that would have had to happen is mind-boggling. So mind-boggling, in fact, it’s impossible to calculate.

Dr. Walt Brown talks about this in more detail. And I recommend you read his book “In The Beginning” to discover lots more amazing and awesome reasons you can know that you know you’re created by the one true, living, loving God of all creation. It’ll build your confidence in the Truth and give you hope for your life…if you don’t already have that hope.

If you don’t already have the hope of eternal life,

Then my hope is you’ll check into the scientific evidence. Yes, I’m a Christian, and I have an agenda. But it’s not to scam you or lure you into one of those churches where you’d better hold onto your wallet. My agenda is simple…to share the faith, hope, love (and mountains of evidence) I experience, knowing Jesus, with anyone who’s looking for better answers than evolutionary science fiction. What have you got to lose…except eternal life?

If you believe life makes sense, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/men-and-women-are-different/feed/0Men and women are different, so you’re not an accident. You might look around and think the world has gone … Read the rest...
so you’re not an accident.
You might look around and think the world has gone mad when it comes to genders. Or then again, you might think it’s only beginning to make sense. (you’d be wrong, of course) But here’s something you can’t argue against, successfully…at least not if you wanna face facts and not just feelings: Men and women are different. And because they are you have yet another big dose of evidence against life on planet earth magically appearing from non-life. (if you’d like to listen to the rest of this instead of reading…)
It’s amazing when you think about how the sexual reproduction systems in men and women are different, but they appear to be so made for each other. Of course, that’s a little bit tongue-in-cheek because they don’t simply appear to be made for each other…they’re perfectly made for each other. But just imagine millions and millions of years ago (and that of course always requires imagination) when the separate reproduction systems were said to have been “evolving”. It takes a whole lotta heaps of imagination to conjure up how two radically different, yet highly compatible, systems could time their evolution so well. Just think about a few compatibility issues:

* Physical
* Chemical
* Emotional
* Environmental
* Accidental

And not only men and women are different.
The reproduction systems in the male and female of all the other species had to have been simultaneously evolving at the same (or similar) rate and speed, too. And then there are the plants. Don’t get me started. You can boil it down to this…timing. If one or the other…male or female…of the reproduction systems had been off only a little, that species would quickly become extinct. The number of miraculous accidents that would have had to happen is mind-boggling. So mind-boggling, in fact, it’s impossible to calculate.
Dr. Walt Brown talks about this in more detail. And I recommend you read his book “In The Beginning” to discover lots more amazing and awesome reasons you can know that you know you’re created by the one true, living, loving God of all creation. It’ll build your confidence in the Truth and give you hope for your life…if you don’t already have that hope.
If you don’t already have the hope of eternal life,
Then my hope is you’ll check into the scientific evidence. Yes, I’m a Christian, and I have an agenda. But it’s not to scam you or lure you into one of those churches where you’d better hold onto your wallet. My agenda is simple…to share the faith, hope, love (and mountains of evidence) I experience, knowing Jesus, with anyone who’s looking for better answers than evolutionary science fiction. What have you got to lose…except eternal life?

If you believe life makes sense, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…
Join my Rhyme and Reason Club

Note to Self: focus on what you do best

After receiving some info from a friend about “it”…and discovering some more info about “it”…and even watching some videos about “it”…I’ve made a note to self that says what they all say. Focus on what YOU do best. And for what it’s worth to those of you who don’t care about music, or to those of you who’ve never even liked my music…what I do best is write, sing, and write songs. There! I’m not taking it back. And I’m not gonna let the world talk me out of it anymore.

For those of you who’d rather listen than read, here’s the podcast…

In the past week, I’ve listened to…

A guy talk about his jet he bought for his business

Another guy talk about why he bought a coffee shop

Another guy talk about how his businesses made over $700k in one day

And still another guy talk about the “tons of money” he spends outsourcing work

Let me assure you I think it’s awesome what each of those guys have been able to do. Listening to them didn’t make me envious. It inspired me to step up my own game. In fact, after each talk, I’d make another note to self. And when I looked back at my “notes”, they all pointed to the same thing. I let my dreams slip away…and probably right when I shouldn’t have.

Now, I can honestly say I haven’t completely given up on my dreams. But I can also say I haven’t pursued them with the intensity and purpose I should have. Especially since technology can take me so much further toward them than people like me in past generations could go on their own. I’ve just allowed outside forces to influence me and nudge me toward self-doubt. And I mean doubt about selling the products of my gifts and talents.

Have you made a mental note to self like this lately?

Is there something you’re not doing you know you should? Or maybe something you ARE doing that you shouldn’t? Man, that’s been me. I’ve been my own worst enemy for way too long. And if you’re like me, let’s not fret too much. We’re in good company. Paul, the “apostle to the Gentiles” struggled with doing what he didn’t want to do and not doing what he DID want to do. Why does that happen?!

For a Christian, the answer is simple…even though it’s not always easy to admit or overcome. Sin. And to put it more bluntly…the sin of selfishness. Yeah, when I focus on ME, I tend to do the things I know I shouldn’t do while forgetting those things I should be doing. And on the opposite side of the equation…when I focus on helping others (which includes focusing on my own gifts and talents and how they can help), I tend to love my neighbor as myself. Not to mention (although here I am mentioning it) I get a lot more good and right stuff done.

And on that NOTE…

The whole reason I began sharing this with you is to announce a big plan of mine for 2018. Hard to believe it’s less than three weeks away. “What’s the big plan?” you ask. Notes. Not post-it notes. And I don’t mean that Apple app either. No, I’m talking about those 7 different tones (or notes…and notice how both words use the same letters?) found in a musical octave. I’m gonna do something YUGE in 2018. It’s about songs. And you don’t wanna miss it because right now it’s a plan…a challenge. And I might fall on my face and fail. You wouldn’t wanna miss that would you?

So, be sure to subscribe to my Rhyme and Reason Podcast where I’ll be sharing more about this big, musical adventure. In fact, the Rhyme and Reason Podcast is the only place where you’ll get to see me fall on my face. Or succeed and amaze the listening world! Be sure to make this note to self: Don’t miss it. Here are the lyrics to the song I shared in this week’s podcast…

If you believe life makes sense, and you want the world to know why, then share my rhymes and reasons with your friends and family, and let’s get The Word out. Like this…

]]>https://www.tonyfunderburk.com/note-to-self/feed/2Note to Self: focus on what you do best After receiving some info from a friend about “it”…and discovering some … Read the rest...
After receiving some info from a friend about “it”…and discovering some more info about “it”…and even watching some videos about “it”…I’ve made a note to self that says what they all say. Focus on what YOU do best. And for what it’s worth to those of you who don’t care about music, or to those of you who’ve never even liked my music…what I do best is write, sing, and write songs. There! I’m not taking it back. And I’m not gonna let the world talk me out of it anymore.
For those of you who’d rather listen than read, here’s the podcast…
In the past week, I’ve listened to…

* A guy talk about his jet he bought for his business
* Another guy talk about why he bought a coffee shop
* Another guy talk about how his businesses made over $700k in one day
* And still another guy talk about the “tons of money” he spends outsourcing work

Let me assure you I think it’s awesome what each of those guys have been able to do. Listening to them didn’t make me envious. It inspired me to step up my own game. In fact, after each talk, I’d make another note to self. And when I looked back at my “notes”, they all pointed to the same thing. I let my dreams slip away…and probably right when I shouldn’t have.
Now, I can honestly say I haven’t completely given up on my dreams. But I can also say I haven’t pursued them with the intensity and purpose I should have. Especially since technology can take me so much further toward them than people like me in past generations could go on their own. I’ve just allowed outside forces to influence me and nudge me toward self-doubt. And I mean doubt about selling the products of my gifts and talents.
Have you made a mental note to self like this lately?
Is there something you’re not doing you know you should? Or maybe something you ARE doing that you shouldn’t? Man, that’s been me. I’ve been my own worst enemy for way too long. And if you’re like me, let’s not fret too much. We’re in good company. Paul, the “apostle to the Gentiles” struggled with doing what he didn’t want to do and not doing what he DID want to do. Why does that happen?!
For a Christian, the answer is simple…even though it’s not always easy to admit or overcome. Sin. And to put it more bluntly…the sin of selfishness. Yeah, when I focus on ME, I tend to do the things I know I shouldn’t do while forgetting those things I should be doing. And on the opposite side of the equation…when I focus on helping others (which includes focusing on my own gifts and talents and how they can help), I tend to love my neighbor as myself. Not to mention (although here I am mentioning it) I get a lot more good and right stuff done.
And on that NOTE…
The whole reason I began sharing this with you is to announce a big plan of mine for 2018. Hard to believe it’s less than three weeks away. “What’s the big plan?” you ask. Notes. Not post-it notes. And I don’t mean that Apple app either. No, I’m talking about those 7 different tones (or notes…and notice how both words use the same letters?) found in a musical octave. I’m gonna do something YUGE in 2018. It’s about songs. And you don’t wanna miss it because right now it’s a plan…a challenge. And I might fall on my face and fail. You wouldn’t wanna miss that would you?
So, be sure to subscribe to my clean17:10
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